Abstract

By linking existing research data from different sources, their analytical power can be increased significantly at relatively low costs. Since most datasets in Germany are not provided with unique identifiers (e.g. a social security number), but can only be linked by specifications such as name and address, making data accessible that way generally requires sophisticated record linkage techniques. An additional challenge arises from data protection regulations in Germany. Installing a "German Record-Linkage-Center" provides solutions for recurring problems with individual record-linkage applications. The centre is designed as a long-term infrastructure facility, open to all disciplines.