What can affect the degree to which data is fit for an application?

The degree to which data is fit for an application is significantly influenced by discrepancies and inconsistencies in formatting. When data is improperly formatted or inconsistent, it can lead to difficulties in processing, analysis, and interpretation. For instance, if spatial data is recorded in different formats—for example, using varying units of measurement, coordinate systems, or file types—this can create errors in data integration and analysis. Such inconsistencies impede the ability of geospatial applications to accurately utilize the data, affecting their performance and reliability.

In contrast, while changes in user preference, the storage medium used for the data, and access to software updates can impact usability and accessibility, they do not directly address the core issue of data integrity and suitability for specific applications in the way that formatting discrepancies do. Effective data formatting is crucial for ensuring that data can be seamlessly employed in various applications without errors, which is why it stands out as a key factor in determining data fitness.