DATA AND INFORMATION PROCESSING
Data processing involves a series of input, process, output, and storage activities that converts data into
information. These series of activities are often called the information processing cycle.
Below is a diagram illustrating the information processing cycle
Input Output
Data Processing Information
Storage
Stages of Information Processing
The five basic stages of processing data into information are:
1. Data Collection - capturing data from their sources and recording it onto some media (e.g.,
paper).The paper or document on which data is recorded is called a source document.
2. Data Preparation - copying, grouping, or arranging data in a more convenient way for input.
During this stage data validation and verification is carried out.
- Data Validation is the checking of input data for errors.
- Data Verification is when data is checked for mistakes while it’s being copied from one place
to another.
3. Input of Data - entering the data or sending the stored data into the processing system.
4. Processing - calculating or manipulating the input data and even storing the results for future use.
5. Output of Information - giving out the processed results in a readable form (e.g., a report).
Methods of Data processing:
1. Electronic Data Processing
When an electronic device (e.g., a computer) is used to process data into information, this is called electronic
data processing. Electronic data processing is also referred to as Computerization.
Advantages of using computers for data processing
1. Tasks can be completed faster because computers work at amazing speed.
2. Computers can process large amounts of data and generate error-free results, provided that the data is
entered correctly.
3. Computers can store enormous amounts of data for future use.
4. The high reliability of components inside modern computers enables computers to produce consistent
results.
5. Efficiency and productivity of tasks carried out can be raised .
6. Running cost becomes lower in the long term.
7. Tasks can be completed with little human intervention (i.e., automatic).
8. Overall, security can be raised due to less human
intervention.
9. The management can observe new information trends and new changes more quickly.
10. Customer services can be improved due to more efficient management and operations.
11. Computers with communicating capability can share data and information with other computers.
Disadvantages of using computers for data processing
1. Computers are very costly. The initial cost of purchase can be high when buying or repairing
computer equipment.
2. Extra cost is required to employ specialized staff to operate and design the data processing
system.
3. Some jobs may be lost due to use of computers and this may lower the morale of staff members.
4. Some staff has to be trained or retrained on how to use computers and software.
5. Face-to-face interactions among staff may be reduced.
6. Due to the rapid changes in information technology, computers and related equipment become
outdated within a short period of time.
7. In case of computer breakdown, data can be easily lost.
8. The devices used require a source of power or energy to function.
9. A lot of care is needed in handling the devices used for processing data.
10. There are health risks associated with using computers such as eye sight defects, repetitive strain
injuries (RSI), backaches, etc.
11. Easier transmission of computer viruses through the Internet and other computer networks.