The Linguistic Search Standard for global name matching defines the principle requirements for searching for proper names within international data sets. These principles define the minimum standard for searching for names presented in a Latin script, regardless of their cultural origin or original language script. The standard is independent of specific software applications and can be implemented using a number of different technical approaches.
The standard has been formulated in three parts: the principles for determining a near exact match - the Precise Match Level – the additional principles which should be followed to determine very similar matches – the Close Match Level – and the final principles which combine to determine a wider range of matches – the Broad Match Level.
Whether Precise, Close or Broad matches are required will depend on the identity matching procedure in question. KYC processes or fraud investigations will likely require the examination of any close matches, where as real-time processing situations, such as transaction screening, may need the matching process to be restricted to more precise matches only.
