1. Unit 2 - Global Information
2.3 Quality of Information

2. Starter
For each of the characteristics find and definition and provide an example.
Characteristic
Definition
Example
Relevant
Accurate
Valid
Up-to-date
Comparable
Un-biased
Complete

3. Objectives Know about the characteristics of information
Understand why it is important that holders of information have access to good quality information.
Understand and explain the impacts when information quality is poor

4. Characteristics Valid info Biased info Comparable info Reliable
Useful - Fits the need to which it is being used for
On-time and accurate
Correct
Valid info
Presents a one-sided view
May be correct but ignored other info that could present an alternative view
E.g. a house for sale might focus on only the positive info, ignoring the negative
Biased info
Can be compared with similar info
E.g. comparing annual sales of two organisations of similar size but in different countries
Comparable info
Information that can be trusted and believed.
Source of information has a positive reputation
Reliable

5. Importance of Good Quality Information to Stakeholders

6. Consequences of Poor Quality Info
Can lead to bad decisions
Impacts could be a failed project/missed opportunity
Longer term impacts could be info being given by the organisation may be wrong/reputation may be damaged.
Eg. Research project only interviewing small number of people:
Conclusions that are drawn may not be applicable to general public
Therefore new product, for example, may not sell as well as intended.

7. Task
Complete main task on the worksheet LO2.3 Quality of Information Task.
Then complete the exam question below:
Discuss the possible impacts that poor quality information could have for an online retailer. [10 marks]

8. Mark Scheme