Data and information are part of the data processing system. Data is the raw material used as input and information is processed data obtained as the output of data processing. Being a data processing system, the computer has importance in providing in-depth knowledge of whatever is involved in processing the data. Input refers to the data and instructions given to the computer.
DATA
where data is a raw set of facts and figures associated with an individual, an entity, or an event. It is a collection of unorganized facts or concepts that do not convey any meaning. Data can be represented in various forms example in figures, characters, symbols, pictures, audio, video, etc.
INFORMATION
The meaningful output is information. When we apply some process to data we get some result. This result is called output. But if that output is meant for someone, then it becomes information for him/her.
Example
The average performance of a class is derived as an output from the process of summing up all the marks of the class and dividing it by the number of students. This output would be meaningful to the class teacher, but maybe not to the peon of the school. The output derived information for the class teacher but not to the peon.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN DATA AND INFORMATION
1. Data is raw facts and figures. for example 32 is data.
Information is a processed form of data. For example Age 32.
2. Data is not significant to a business.
Information is significant to a business.
3. Data are atomic level pieces of information. It can be in the form of numbers, characters, symbols, or even pictures.
Information is a collection of data. For example, Age and 32 collected together to form information.
4. Data does not help in decision making.
The information helps in decision making.
5. Observations and recordings are done to obtain data.
The analysis is done to obtain information.
6. Input to any system may be treated as data.
Output after processing the system is information.
7. Data is difficult to understand properly.
Information is easy to understand.
8. Data must be processed to understand.
Information is already in an understandable form, it may be processed further to make it more understandable.
9. Data may not be in order.
Information should be in order.
Similarities between Data and Information
The data and information need to be processed by humans to have utility value.
The data and information are an integral part of the time continuum from data to wisdom, with data as the beginning stage and wisdom as the final stage. This is how I envisage it.
DATA-> INFORMATION -> IDEA -> ACTION-> EXPERIENCE -> KNOWLEDGE -> EXPERTISE-> WISDOM.
This post discusses the difference between data and information and similarities. I hope you have learned from reading this post. If you like this post then share it with your friends and you can comment on any of your doubts and I will replay then at the earliest.
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