What is entity resolution?

Definition

Entity resolution compares names, identifiers, addresses, domains, and other attributes to determine whether separate records represent the same entity. It can combine exact rules, probabilistic matching, and reviewed exceptions.

Resolving a company across systems gives agents and people a coherent account view. Poor resolution can duplicate activity, attach context to the wrong customer, or cause conflicting automated actions.

ELI5

Entity resolution decides whether records from different systems refer to the same real person, company, account or object. It compares identifiers and details instead of assuming that slightly different names always represent different things.

For example, records for “Example Ltd” and “Example Limited” may match through their website, address and registration number. A mistaken match can attach private or incorrect history to the wrong customer, so uncertain cases need review.

Acronyms and aliases

identity resolution synonymrecord linkage synonym

Frequently asked questions

Why is entity resolution difficult?

Records can use different names, incomplete identifiers, outdated attributes, shared domains, or inconsistent formatting across systems.

How is entity resolution used in AI workflows?

It links context and actions to the correct customer or account before an agent makes decisions or updates connected systems.

Videos explaining entity resolution

  1. Everett Berry beside the words AI Agents Run GTM