Data Manipulation

What is Data Manipulation?

As specialists in database design and management, we have built up a considerable experience in data manipulation.

Often legacy data, that may have been around in your business for many years in an old system, is not in the best format for modern use. For example, a person's name is stored in a single field, instead of split into separate fields (see Fig 1 - Splitting Your Data). By splitting your data it makes it more flexible, for instance you can then write a letter to Mr Smith or John, instead of Mr John Smith. This is just the most basic of examples, but it helps to visualise how the formatting of your data structure is important.

Fig 1 - Splitting Your Data
Data Manipulation - Splitting your data

Relational Structures

Another common example of data being stored inefficiently is when you have companies stored with contacts in the same data record, this is called a flat-file structure. The main problem with this type of data storage is that you need to enter changes multiple times. For example, if a company has 3 contacts in your system and their main phone number changes, you would need to change that number on 3 separate records. The best case scenario is that someone has to waste extra time changing three records and, as we all know, time is money. The worse case is that not all of the contact records get changed, then sometime later when you go to use that data you’re not sure which contact has the correct phone number. By splitting this data into a proper relational structure we can ensure your data is ready for the 21st century and your new system.

At Linear Blue, in most cases, we can automate the process of taking your data from your old system, cleaning it and importing it into your new solution ready to use. Sometimes this can require human input, however our expert analysts will be on hand to help make the transition as seamless as possible.

If you would like more information on how Linear Blue can help with the transition of your data, please call us today on 0845 521 0015 and speak to one of our data specialists who will be more than happy to discuss your requirements.