The tokenize process generates match keys for all the records in a base object and stores them in its match key table. Depending on the nature of the data in the base object record, the tokenize process generates at least one match key—and possibly multiple match keys—for each base object record. Match keys are used subsequently in the match process to help determine possible matches between base object records.

In the Match / Merge Setup Details pane of the Schema Manager, the Match Keys Distribution tab allows you to investigate the distribution of match keys in the match key table. This tool can assist you with identifying potential

hot spots

in your data—high concentrations of match keys that could result in

overmatching

—where the match process generates too many matches, including matches that are not relevant. By knowing where hot spots occur in your data, you can refine data cleansing and match rules to reduce hot spots and generate an optimal distribution of match keys for use in the match process. Ideally, you want to have a relatively even distribution across all keys.