Call for Papers Special Issue on Entity Resolution

Entity resolution (ER) is a key process for improving data quality in data integration in modern information systems. ER covers a wide range of approaches to entity-based integration, known variously as merge/purge, record de-duplication, heterogeneous join, identity resolution, and customer recognition. More broadly, ER also includes a number of important preand post-integration activities, such as entity reference extraction and entity relationship analysis. Based on direct record matching strategies, such as those described by the Fellegi-Sunter Model, new theoretical frameworks are evolving to describe ER processes and outcomes that include other types of inferred and asserted reference linking techniques. Businesses have long recognized that the quality of their ER processes directly impacts the overall value of their information assets and the quality of the information products they produce. Government agencies and departments, including law enforcement and the intelligence community, are increasing their use of ER as a tool for accomplishing their missions as well. Recognizing the growing interest in ER theory and practice, and its impact on information quality in organizations, the ACM Journal of Data and Information Quality (JDIQ) will devote a special issue to innovative and high-quality research papers in this area. Papers that address any aspect of entity resolution are welcome.