Learn the art of finance engineering →
← Glossary

Definition · data lineage

Lineage to source

Lineage to source is an unbroken trace connecting a derived figure back to the specific source records and transformations that produced it. For lineage to source, the important details are the period, source evidence, reviewer, threshold, and control purpose that make the treatment auditable.

Also known as source lineage, source-to-output lineage, field-level lineage

Written by Pluvo TeamReviewed by Pluvo Team
02

Why it matters

Understanding lineage to source matters because close, reconciliation, and audit work depend on consistent timing, source evidence, review thresholds, and ownership. A loose definition creates avoidable rework. Lineage to source is the path from a reported number back to the exact records that produced it. Pluvo builds this as a number to formula to source-records trail, so a reviewer can verify a figure instead of trusting it.

03

In practice

  • Close example

    Teams use lineage to source during close, review, or audit support when a balance or transaction needs evidence. The controller should be able to trace the number to source records, timing, reviewer, and control threshold.

  • Pluvo example

    Lineage to source is the path from a reported number back to the exact records that produced it. Pluvo builds this as a number to formula to source-records trail, so a reviewer can verify a figure instead of trusting it.

In practice, teams should define lineage to source with a clear source, owner, time period, and decision before they use it in reporting, planning, or operating reviews.

Understanding lineage to source matters because close, reconciliation, and audit work depend on consistent timing, source evidence, review thresholds, and ownership. A loose definition creates avoidable rework. Lineage to source is the path from a reported number back to the exact records that produced it. Pluvo builds this as a number to formula to source-records trail, so a reviewer can verify a figure instead of trusting it.

A strong workflow for lineage to source separates the definition from the action: first agree what the term means, then decide how it is measured, when it changes, and who is accountable for the next step.

Lineage to source is the path from a reported number back to the exact records that produced it. Pluvo builds this as a number to formula to source-records trail, so a reviewer can verify a figure instead of trusting it.

04

FAQ

What does lineage to source mean?

Lineage to source is an unbroken trace connecting a derived figure back to the specific source records and transformations that produced it. For lineage to source, the important details are the period, source evidence, reviewer, threshold, and control purpose that make the treatment auditable.

How is lineage to source different from general data lineage?

The boundary for lineage to source differs from related terms by scope, source data, time period, and decision use. In this glossary, it covers an unbroken trace connecting a derived figure back to the specific source records and transformations that produced it, so teams should compare those boundaries before using it in reporting or planning.

05

Sources

Turn your data into a system for real decisions

Book a demo