Single source of truth: what it means for a business
Every piece of information has exactly one place where it is maintained. All other programs read from there. Why this is the basis for automation.
"Single source of truth" sounds like consultant jargon. It means something simple: every piece of information is maintained in exactly one place. All other programs and people read from there instead of keeping their own copy.
What it looks like without one
A customer's address is stored in the inventory system, the email program, the accounting software and on a note at reception. When the customer moves, it is updated in two places and forgotten in two. The invoice goes to the old address, and someone has to track down the error.
What it looks like with one
The address is changed in one place. Shop, accounting and shipping receive the change automatically. Your existing programs often stay in place. They are connected rather than replaced.
Why it comes before AI
Automation and AI work with the data they find. If the data contradicts itself, so do the results, only faster. A shared data foundation is therefore the most important step from "digital" to "connected". Only then does it make sense to hand routine work over to software.
How to start
Pick one piece of information that is maintained in several places today, for example customer data or products. Decide which program is the leading source. Then connect the other places, one at a time.