RECORD ORGANIZATION · Workflow idea
When the same item appears in two separate lists, match the shared identifier and bring the corresponding details into one combined view. Use your own records in place of the examples.
01 / The starting point
Separate lists that contain a common identifier for matching items
“Compare the lists using their agreed shared identifier and combine the details for records that refer to the same item.”
02 / The work
Matches records from two sources by a shared identifier and organizes their information together.
Select the related information sources that your team wants to bring together.
Identify the value that refers to the same item in both lists, such as a customer or order reference.
Flag missing, repeated, or inconsistent identifiers that could lead to an uncertain match.
Bring information from both lists together for each record with a matching identifier.
Check a sample of matched records and resolve uncertain or incomplete matches before using the results.
03 / The result
A combined set of matched records with details from both lists available together for review or follow-up.
Data · Example outcome
A combined set of matched records with details from both lists available together for review or follow-up.
The quality of the result depends on consistent identifiers in both lists. Review missing or repeated identifiers before relying on a match.
04 / Make it yours
A few choices shape the work around your team.
Select two sources that describe related records and decide which details are useful in the combined view.
Choose a shared identifier that is consistently recorded in both sources.
Choose whether records without a match are set aside, retained separately, or sent to a person for review.
Try matching, missing, and repeated identifiers and verify that the combined result is understandable.