ISM—Carolinas-Virginia, Inc.

Are you ready to expand your network and make meaningful connections? Our virtual speed networking event is the perfect opportunity to meet new people within our growing membership community. In just one hour, you'll have the chance to engage in dynamic, one-on-one conversations with fellow members, exchange ideas, and build valuable relationships. Whether you're looking to collaborate, share insights, or simply make new friends, this is your networking power hour!

Don't miss out on this fun and interactive experience. Come prepared to connect, converse, and create lasting connections.

This webinar provides knowledge regarding the many benefits that come with being a part of the ISM community. Join us and learn about the essential tools, vibrant community, and exceptional learning that enhances your professional development. You'll also gain insight into the array of programs, services, and resources that are available to you through your membership.

What if your organization's data is not telling the story you think it is?

Join Susan Walsh, internationally recognized as The Classification Guru, for an engaging fireside chat that takes attendees through the looking glass to explore the hidden risks, unexpected challenges, and opportunities buried within business data.

The session's theme is a playful nod to "Through the Looking-Glass," the sequel to Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll, which was written while he lived in Guildford, England—the same town Susan Walsh calls home today. Much like Alice's journey into a world where things are not always as they appear, organizations often discover that the data they rely on for procurement, finance, and supply chain decisions can be surprisingly misleading.

Behind the mirror lies a world of duplicate supplier records, inconsistent payment terms, inaccurate tax and GL coding, poor invoice descriptions, and fragmented data spread across multiple systems. These issues can obscure true supplier spend, increase the risk of fraud and duplicate payments, create reporting inaccuracies, and undermine strategic decision-making.

As organizations increasingly turn to artificial intelligence for answers, Susan will also explore the realities of AI-driven data classification and automation. While AI offers tremendous potential, it can only be as effective as the data it is given. Attendees will gain practical insights into why clean data, strong processes, and human oversight remain essential for successful AI initiatives.

Key Discussion Topics:

·         The hidden costs of dirty supplier and spend data

·         Common vendor master and invoice data challenges

·         Fraud, compliance, and reporting risks created by poor data quality

·         The growing importance of clean data for e-invoicing and regulatory requirements

·         Where AI can help—and where it still struggles

·         Why human expertise remains critical in AI-enabled processes

·         Practical steps for improving data quality and governance