The Effect of Data Inaccuracy on Tests of Space-Time Interaction

Space-time event data are often subject to deficiencies in (1) locational accuracy (2), temporal accuracy and (3) completeness. This work explores how these failings in the quality of input data may affect the results of space-time interaction tests. While previous work has partially investigated the impact of locational inaccuracy on the results of these tests, more work remains. The impacts of temporal inaccuracy and incomplete data reporting on the results of these tests remain completely unexplored. This study examines the influence of these problems individually and collectively, using a series of simulations. Findings demonstrate that even in cases of slight inaccuracy or underreporting, the consequences on results are potentially severe. Although the study is couched in terms of data inaccuracy, its relevance to situations where inaccuracy is replaced with uncertainty is self-evident.