Data Quality Management of Reference Datasets - Present Practice in European National Mapping Agencies and a Proposal for a New Approach

This paper introduces a model for data quality management that could be utilized for reference datasets. The use topographic datasets as examples and the same principles can be applied to other reference data as well. The model is based on practical experiences developed among national mapping agencies (NMAs) in Europe, as well as standards on quality management (ISO 9000 series), geographic information (ISO 19100) and other international standards. The model had to be cost effective, be based on international standards, provide representative and reliable quality results, have definable confidence levels and utilize differing test methods for different quality elements.