FRIL: A Tool for Comparative Record Linkage

A fine-grained record integration and linkage tool (FRIL) is presented. The tool extends traditional record linkage tools with a richer set of parameters. Users may systematically and iteratively explore the optimal combination of parameter values to enhance linking performance and accuracy. Results of linking a birth defects monitoring program and birth certificate data using FRIL show 99% precision and 95% recall rates when compared to results obtained through handcrafted algorithms, and the process took significantly less time to complete. Experience and experimental result suggest that FRIL has the potential to increase the accuracy of data linkage across all studies involving record linkage. In particular, FRIL will enable researchers to assess objectively the quality of linked data.