What is the relationship between accuracy and precision in data collection?

Accuracy and precision are two distinct but related concepts in data collection, particularly within the context of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The correct answer emphasizes that accuracy pertains to the closeness of a measurement to the true value, while precision relates to the consistency of repeated measurements.

When data is accurate, it means the values are correct and reflect reality, which is crucial for making reliable decisions based on that data. For instance, if you measure the height of a mountain and it is recorded as 10,000 feet, that value is accurate if it is indeed the true height of the mountain.

On the other hand, precision refers to how closely repeated measurements of the same thing agree with one another. Using the mountain example, if you measure the height multiple times and consistently obtain values like 9,950 feet, 9,960 feet, 9,970 feet, etc., those measurements are precise even if they may not be accurate (i.e., they don't match the true height of 10,000 feet).

Understanding the difference between these two concepts is vital in geospatial intelligence and GIS because it informs data quality assessments and decision-making based on that data. Accurate, precise data greatly enhances the reliability of analyses and conclusions drawn from ge