What does data integrity refer to?

Data integrity refers to the accuracy and consistency of data throughout its lifecycle. This includes the processes of data collection, storage, and retrieval. Ensuring data integrity means that the data remains unaltered and free from corruption or unauthorized modifications over time. It plays a critical role in making sure that the data is reliable and trustworthy for analysis and decision-making. High data integrity allows organizations to maintain accurate records, which is essential for effective analysis and operational efficiency.

In contrast, the other options relate to different aspects of data management but do not directly address the concept of integrity. The organization of data in databases pertains to data structures and schemas rather than integrity itself. The speed of data processing is a measure of performance, and the amount of data stored in a warehouse is a quantitative measure, but both do not reflect on the accuracy or consistency that defines data integrity.