Managed Services Data Quality Alert Automation for Gordon Food Service

The Challenge 

GFS’ existing data quality alert handling process was predominantly manual where it required repeated validations between their Snapshot, Data Lake Views_Current and their Enterprise Data Warehouse (EDW) followed by the preparation of reports using a standard GFS template. The presence of multiple repetitive steps such as metric checks, data comparisons, timestamp validations, and general reporting made the process time-consuming, and operationally inefficient. The manual nature of the workflow not only introduced delays but inadvertently increased the likelihood of human error during critical data quality incidents. 

The Solution 

Managed Services developed a data quality alert automation within the Strategy System Manager tool that’s initiated when a specific data alert occurs. From there, it triggers a workflow that’s identical to the manual procedure our team had followed previously including running the necessary queries and data comparisons. This solution incorporated the use of a powershell script to follow the standard GFS template which stores the output, calculates timestamp differences, and lastly generates an email notification summarizing the alert and the associated alert findings that would then be communicated across the wider GFS team.  

The Result 

Managed Services data quality alert automation provides several key benefits. It minimizes the risk of inconsistent data reaching business users by automatically managing event states and pausing downstream processes. The automation also significantly speeds up the investigation process and enhances the accuracy and reliability of the data quality workflow. Furthermore, it improves Managed Services productivity by streamlining the end-to-end operational process, which in turn enables quicker and clearer communication of findings to GFS.

About the Client

Gordon Food Service is a leading North American foodservice distributor. They offer a wide range of food products, beverages, and supplies to businesses like restaurants, healthcare facilities, and schools. GFS focuses on delivering high-quality products, exceptional customer service, and tailored solutions to meet the diverse needs of clients. 

66degrees is the Managed Services provider for Gordon Food Service.  As part of these services, 66degrees provided 24/7 ongoing support and management of their Data Platform, Google Cloud Platform (GCP) & Strategy infrastructure. In addition, 66degrees also proactively sought opportunities to improve or enhance their Managed Services workstreams by automating tasks and implementing configuration improvements. 

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