How do you manage outdated data standards?

1 Assess the impact

In order to effectively manage outdated data standards, it is essential to assess the impact of using them or not using them. Questions such as the criticality of the data, the number of systems or applications that rely on it, and the compatibility of the outdated standard with newer ones should be taken into account. Additionally, you should consider how often and how long you need to use or maintain the data that follows the outdated standard. By assessing the impact, you can prioritize and plan your actions accordingly and identify both the risks and benefits of keeping or changing the outdated standard.

2 Update or migrate

The next step to managing outdated data standards is to update or migrate them to a newer or more suitable standard. This may involve modifying the data structure, format, metadata, or values to align with the new standard. It may also involve transforming, converting, or transferring the data from one system or platform to another. Depending on the scope and complexity of the update or migration, you may need to use tools, scripts, or services that can automate or facilitate the process. You may also need to coordinate with other data owners, users, or providers who are affected by the change.

Updating or migrating outdated data standards can help you improve your data quality, consistency, interoperability, and usability. It can also help you comply with the latest regulations, requirements, or best practices in your industry, domain, or organization. However, updating or migrating outdated data standards can also be challenging, time-consuming, or expensive. It can also introduce errors, inconsistencies, or compatibility issues if not done properly. Therefore, you need to test, validate, and document the update or migration process and results.

3 Archive or delete

The final step to managing outdated data standards is to archive or delete them if they are no longer needed or used. This may involve moving the data that follows the outdated standard to a separate storage location or system where it can be accessed for reference, backup, or historical purposes. It may also involve removing the data that follows the outdated standard from the active storage location or system where it can free up space, reduce clutter, or enhance performance. Depending on the nature and value of the data, you may need to follow certain policies, procedures, or guidelines for archiving or deleting data.

Archiving or deleting outdated data standards can help you optimize your data storage, management, and governance. It can also help you avoid confusion, duplication, or conflict with the newer or more relevant data standards. However, archiving or deleting outdated data standards can also be risky, irreversible, or detrimental. It can also affect your data availability, integrity, or reliability if not done carefully. Therefore, you need to backup, audit, and secure the archive or delete process and outcomes.

4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?