To maintain data consistency across different reports, which practice is essential?

The focus on implementing master data management and consistent filter settings is critical for maintaining data consistency across different reports. Master data management (MDM) ensures that all users and reports are drawing from a singular, authoritative source of data, which is vital for accuracy and uniformity in reporting. By creating a single, consistent set of definitions for key business entities (like customers, products, or locations), organizations can avoid discrepancies that may arise when different reports reference different versions of the same data.

Consistent filter settings further enhance data integrity by ensuring that data is viewed and analyzed under the same criteria across various reports. If filters are applied inconsistently, the same data could yield varying insights or metrics depending on the filters used, leading to confusion and misinterpretation of results.

This approach is essential because even slight variations in definitions or filters can lead to significant discrepancies in reporting, undermining decision-making processes and trust in the data. Utilizing shared dimensions and data locking could also contribute to data consistency but might not address the broader scope of data management and standardized reporting practices that master data management entails.