Data Management Flashcards
What is data management in the context of surveying?
The process of collecting, storing, analysing, and reporting property data to support professional advice and decision making.
What types of data do surveyors manage?
Valuation data, inspection notes, measurement records, market evidence, planning data, and GIS information.
What is the purpose of a data audit?
To assess the quality, completeness, and accuracy of data held by an organisation or project.
What is metadata and why is it important?
Metadata is data about data (e.g., source, date, format), providing context, traceability, and improving data usability.
What legislation is relevant to data handling?
UK GDPR, Data Protection Act 2018, and Freedom of Information Act.
What is the benefit of a centralised data system?
It improves access, consistency, data security, and allows for integration with other systems or analytics tools.
What are the risks of poor data management?
Inaccurate valuations, professional negligence, data breaches, inefficiencies, and loss of client trust.
How do you ensure data quality?
Through validation checks, source verification, regular audits, and consistent formatting or templates.
How have you used data management systems in your work?
I’ve input and verified property data in VOA systems, updated records post-inspection, and analysed datasets for valuation trends.
How do you handle confidential data?
By using secure systems, adhering to access controls, and complying with GDPR requirements.
What is the role of technology in data management?
It supports storage, processing, analysis, automation, and reporting—improving efficiency and decision making.
Have you dealt with large property datasets?
Yes, I’ve worked with VOA property lists, rating lists, and valuation datasets to identify patterns and check anomalies.
What are key principles of data integrity?
Accuracy, consistency, timeliness, and auditability.
What tools do you use for data analysis?
Excel, GIS tools, VOA internal systems, and sometimes valuation modelling tools.
What are the consequences of using outdated data in a valuation?
It may lead to incorrect advice, challenges from clients or authorities, and breach of professional obligations.
