Sources before scores

A metric is only as reliable as its source. Record the publisher, publication date, measurement period and definition. A recent retrieval date does not make old data new.

Primary sources are original documents such as filings, fund materials or protocol documentation. They may still contain errors and conflicts. Independent cross-checking improves interpretation.

A score compresses assumptions. Without a dataset, weights and documented uncertainty, it cannot be interpreted meaningfully. Label missing data explicitly.