Liz,
Thanks for the link To merge or not to merge can be challenging. Hopefully, when someone merges 2 profiles they are willing to dedicate the time to verify information which may slightly differ. Matching profiles can be difficult due to good sources with conflicting information. For instance, information transcribed by U.S. Census workers contain human error with spelling of names. Perfection may be a dream; but, effort and accountability are always expected and and self-rewarding.
As any tree grows, decisions made on how to keep it healthy must always include trimming. Any good gardner must assess risk/ reward. I really like the idea of a short report template, within a profile, that explains why 2 profiles have been rejected as duplication. Perhaps, this idea would save a lot of time, space, and encourage meaningful collaboration.
So happy to see the comment yesterday by Eowyn... "In Progress!"