Source Identifier Management for Clustered Records
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Solution Overview
Problem
Databases face challenges in managing source identifiers for clustered records, particularly when records from the same source undergo changes in identifying information, leading to the creation of new identifiers that can be misrepresentative and difficult to track.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for managing source identifiers of clustered records by sorting records into clusters based on identification data, generating source identifiers, and determining whether to assign these identifiers to updated clusters based on attribute comparisons, such as the number of transacting and non-transacting records, to maintain accurate and consistent identifier management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If new records with modified identifying information are sorted into new clusters, then clustering accuracy is improved, but source identifier consistency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary sorting of records into clusters before finalizing source identifier assignments. By pre-establishing clusters based on identifying information and then comparing attributes during the assignment phase, the system ensures both accurate clustering and consistent identifier management across updates.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where newly sorted clusters are compared against existing clusters using attribute comparison (such as number of transacting and non-transacting records). This feedback loop determines whether to assign existing source identifiers or create new ones, maintaining consistency while accommodating accurate clustering.
2Reliability
If source identifiers are reassigned to updated clusters, then identifier accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the identifier assignment process into distinct phases: initial cluster formation, attribute comparison, and conditional identifier assignment. This segmentation allows the system to maintain accuracy through systematic evaluation while managing complexity by breaking down the decision-making process into manageable steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts source identifier assignments based on cluster attribute comparisons. Rather than using static assignment rules, the system evaluates whether to assign existing identifiers or create new ones based on the specific characteristics of each cluster, allowing flexibility while maintaining reliability.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple source identifiers are created for records from the same source, then record specificity is improved, but tracking difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses cluster attributes as an intermediary layer between records and source identifiers. By comparing attributes such as the number of transacting and non-transacting records, the system determines whether records from the same source should share an identifier or receive distinct ones, balancing specificity with tracking ease through objective criteria.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a method for managing source identifiers of clustered records, which may include receiving a plurality of records, each having identification data associated with a source thereof. The records may be sorted into a first plurality of clusters. A first source identifier may be generated for each cluster. Update data associated with an update to the records may be received. At least some of the records may be sorted into a second plurality of clusters. A first cluster of the second plurality of clusters may have first identification data different from at least one cluster of the first plurality of clusters, and a second cluster of the second plurality of clusters may have identification data that substantially matches the at least one cluster. Whether to assign the first source identifier to the first or second cluster may be determined. A system and computer program product are also disclosed.