How do I increase completeness and accuracy of my geocoded data?
Here are some techniques for increasing the quality of your geocoding output: • Use geocoding tools with the best possible reference datasets. • Make sure the addresses in your database have complete and accurate components (number, street, direction, city, zip code). • Make sure there is little or no variability in street spelling (geocoding tool address standardization should take care of this, for the most part). • Decrease the amount of data entry errors. • Limit number of PO Box addresses. • If possible, do not geocode (or limit geocoding) to the zip code level. • Do quality control on your final geocoded data by examining a sample and evaluating whether the geocoded points fell where they were supposed to. You may do so by examining administrative boundaries, aerial imagery, or using geospatial tools.
