Managing data through naming standards

The author illustrates how the concept of naming conventions can be introduced and justified. She points out that although shared (or pooled) data provide data integrity and efficiency, problems arise when people use different naming conventions. As a solution she suggests that a detailed description of the file system, i.e. a naming standard, be set up. She provides two rules for creating a naming standard. Provide the highest possible probability that two people, naming the same thing, will come up with the exact same name. Check a new name for conformance when it is applied, before the name is put into use. The first rule ensures that everyone files the data in the same place. The second rule ensures that cross-references to this thing are correct. It also ensures that no new synonyms or homonyms are introduced into the system.<>