Record Linkage Overview
This page describes TargetSmart's approach to and use of record linkage technology. TargetSmart's use of record linkage technology is focused on consistently recognizing individuals over time, regardless of changes in their name or address.
Our approach to record linkage is to provide accurate recognition of people over time, at the name and address level, so that an organization can easily identify a member, donor, activist, survey respondent, or voter, regardless of that individuals's name or address variations.
Examples
The following examples illustrate typical obstacles to consistent recognition of people that our record linkage technology can overcome:
Linking people with different addresses:
| Chuck Reese 24 Creekside Lane Coppell, TX 75109 |
Chuck Reese 584 Foxglove Lane Dallas, TX 75249 |
Linking people with different first names:
| J William Fenty 50 Albie Blvd Everett, WA 98201 | Bill Fenty 50 Albie Blvd Everett, WA 98201 |
Linking people with different last names:
| Ruthie Pope 18 Forge Drive Dallas, TX 75287 |
Ruthie Williams 18 Forge Drive Dallas, TX 75287 |
Linking people with different last names and different addresses:
| Lynn Tanner 16724 32Nd Ave SW Burien, WA 98166 |
Lynn Caldwell 10736 Glen Acres Street Seattle, WA 98168 |