Data Processing Cycle

Data Collection and Preparation to produce a Source Document

To prepare it to be directly input at the Data Input stage. This means there is less chance for errors and is much faster than manually typing it in.

After this the Data is Processed and Stored

Once it is stored the Data Output gives output in one of three formats: File, Paper or/and Screen

Direct Data Input Methods Are:
MICR - Magnetic Ink Character Recognition
OCR - Optical Character Recognition (Hardware: Scanner. Software: OC Software)
Mark Sense Card - lottery
Bar Code - DUH!
Smart Card - own microprocessor chip
Magnetic Stripe - Less memory than smart cards, easier to forge and easier to damage

Commercial Data Processing

CDP is all about how large companies deal with and process a lot of data. Like the Lottery, Airports, Morrisons, Spar! (Yes, they do exist!)

Why do we need Computers and CDP
There is a lot of data (Large Volume of documents)
Faster to search through than manual (imagine trying to find a lottery winner from 32 million tickets sold)
Provides high speed access to data (trying to book in at an airport for)
Handle repetitive tasks (imagine having to check EVERY lottery ticket!)

Advantages of Using Computers
Orders processed much more quickly
Computer checks built in so errors less likely
Maintain contact with a large number of people
Easily keep information up to date
Single Entry Multiple Use
One department enters information all departments can access the information

Data and Information

Information(for people) = data(for computers) with structure