a single source of truth

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a single source of truth" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to refer to a centralized database or repository that serves as the authoritative source for accurate data used throughout an organization. For example, "The company implemented a single source of truth to ensure that all departments had access to the same, accurate information."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

Agree on a single source of truth.

Harvard Business Review

We needed to build a single source of truth for not only the data, but the workings applied to the data.

The Guardian

With this new tool, O2 believes it has a comprehensive system based on life-cycle thinking, sound science and manufacturers' own supply chain research to reveal what it calls "a single source of truth".

The Guardian

In making the case to the staff of NYU Langone, Grossman emphasized the value of having a single source of truth across inpatient facilities, outpatient centers, and the medical school.

Harvard Business Review

And because all parties have agreed to use the blockchain as a single source of truth, the ice cream company would be alerted to this in real time, which would allow it to both pull the product from the supply chain and hold the appropriate party accountable for violating the terms of the transportation agreement.

Harvard Business Review

Nevertheless, the ultimate goal is that the data are centralized into a single source of truth.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

The idea, according to Filev, is to be a single-source-of-truth for the information teams need to work, so they spend less time in meetings or searching their inboxes for information that may already be outdated by the time they find it.

Forbes

The idea of having a single source of the truth is that you can analyze a set of data in a way that gives the full context behind that data.

Forbes

The longer-term vision of really bringing all the information that has value from a team and becoming this single source of truth for teams".

TechCrunch

Moving forward, this spreadsheet will serve as the SaaS single source of truth, integral with building a SaaS integration road map.

Forbes

Unlike a centralized metadata management solution which can serve as the single source of truth for all metadata attributes referenced by other systems, metadata elements in the present investigation were obtained from different systems.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When implementing a "a single source of truth", ensure all relevant stakeholders agree on the data's definition, collection methods, and validation processes to maintain its integrity and reliability.

Common error

Don't assume that implementing "a single source of truth" will automatically lead to widespread adoption. Actively promote its benefits, provide training, and address concerns to encourage users to transition from legacy systems.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a single source of truth" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It identifies a specific, reliable, and centralized data repository. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

35%

Academia

30%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a single source of truth" is a noun phrase denoting a reliable, centralized data repository crucial for informed decision-making and data integrity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. Its usage is prevalent in professional, business, and academic domains, as evident from the provided examples. Establishing such a source requires stakeholder agreement and careful implementation to avoid common pitfalls. Alternatives include "authoritative data source" or "central data repository", depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

single version of the truth

Similar meaning, different phrasing. Highlights truthfulness over source

golden record

Industry term for a single, definitive record.

authoritative data source

Focuses on the data's reliability rather than its singularity.

canonical data set

Highlights that the data is definitive and standard.

central data repository

Emphasizes the centralized storage aspect.

enterprise data hub

Emphasizes the centralized hub aspect within an organization.

unified data platform

Highlights the integration and platform aspect of the data.

consistent information base

Highlights the consistent nature of the information

master data management system

More technical and specific, referring to a structured approach to data management.

agreed-upon data standard

Focuses on the standardization and agreement of data, not necessarily a single source.

FAQs

How can I use "a single source of truth" in a sentence?

You might say, "The company implemented "a single source of truth" to ensure all departments use the same data for decision-making" or "Blockchain provides "a single source of truth" for tracking transactions".

What's an alternative to "a single source of truth"?

Alternatives include "authoritative data source", "central data repository", or "unified data platform", depending on the specific context.

Why is "a single source of truth" important?

It reduces data inconsistencies, improves data quality, and streamlines decision-making by ensuring everyone relies on the same, accurate information.

What are the challenges in establishing "a single source of truth"?

Challenges include integrating data from disparate systems, ensuring data quality and consistency, and gaining buy-in from stakeholders who may be resistant to change.