Data Entry Errors
Data entry errors are mistakes or inaccuracies that occur during the process of inputting data into a system, often caused by human error, technical malfunctions, or incorrect formatting. These errors can include misspellings, incorrect values, incorrect categorization, or failure to properly follow the required input format. For instance, a simple typographical error in a name or number can lead to significant discrepancies in a dataset. These errors are especially problematic in databases, spreadsheets, and other systems where precise data is essential for effective decision-making, such as in financial or medical applications.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Data_entry_error
A common cause of data entry errors is human error, which can result from fatigue, distractions, or a lack of knowledge about the data being entered. For example, data might be incorrectly typed, a value might be omitted, or a date could be entered in the wrong format. In some cases, the person entering the data may misunderstand the meaning of the field, such as entering a percentage as a raw number. Training staff properly, using clear instructions, and creating intuitive input forms with validation checks can help reduce these types of errors.
Another cause of data entry errors is technical issues, such as software bugs, system malfunctions, or incompatible input devices. For example, if a data entry form automatically fills fields with incorrect default values or fails to recognize special characters, the data may be entered incorrectly. Similarly, using scanners or optical character recognition (OCR) software can sometimes result in misread characters or missing data. Employing more reliable technology, providing consistent updates and maintenance, and using error-detection algorithms during the data entry process can mitigate these issues.
https://www.dataversity.net/data-quality-best-practices-how-to-correct-data-entry-errors/