Electronic data processing is the use of electronic computers and data processing machines to aid in organizing, storing, and transferring documents from paper format to digital format.
Data are supposed to be raw facts. They are processed to turn them into infor-mation.
Processing of data may involve several phases and there are different ways to data processing.
In an EDP organization, numerous types of professionals are hired. This chapter focuses on each aspect of an EDP organization in an elaborate way.
The word data is the plural of Latin datum, neuter past participle of dare, to give, hence something given. In English, the word datum is still used in the general sense of something given.
Data processing refers to the process of performing specific operations on a set of data or a database.
A database is an organized collection of facts and information, such as records on employees, inventory, customers, and potential customers.
Data processing primarily is performed on information systems, a broad concept that encompasses computer systems and related devices.
The processing stage is where management typically exerts the greatest control over data.
It also is the point at which management can derive the most value from data, assuming that powerful processing tools are available to obtain the intended results.
Data processing has come into being to meet an increasing need for information under increasingly complex conditions. It can assist in handling the paperwork for an ever increasing volume of data.
The processing of data usually required performing repetitive operations with few variations on one document after another. Once the data has been correctly re-corded, it can be stored, calculated, listed and filed mechanically.
Manual as you know means involving using the hands or physical strength. Thus Manual Data Processing means process of data with the help of human efforts.
Manual Data Processing is still widely used especially in developing and underde-veloped countries.
Manual Data Processing is quite slow. Think of shopping malls today where you purchase a mumber of items of household necessities together for a month. In this case one billing preparing manually may take a couple of hours. Isn't it terrifying?
The need for fast calculation, analysis and retrieval of data led to the invention of mechanical tools like adding machines, cash registers, calculators, etc. These are still very much in use in different areas of data processing.
Electronic Data Processing, commonly known by the acronym EDP, electronic data processing involves the use of computers. The fantastic speed, the accuracy of processing and the capability to store a large amount of data has made com-puters the most powerful tool for data processing.
Speed and accuracy, Versatility, Decision making capability, Minimisation of cost in data processing, Reduction of delays in data processing, Repetitive calculations possible are some advantages of Electronic Data Processing.
Data consist of raw facts, such as customer names and addresses. Information is a collection of facts organized in such a way that it has more value beyond the facts themselves.
Turning data into information is a process or a set of logically related tasks per-formed to achieve a defined outcome.
The traditional approach to data management consists of maintaining separate data files for each application.
The database approach is such that multiple business applications access the same database.
Data organization is critical to optimal data use. Consequently, it is important to organize data in such a manner as to reflect business operations and practices.
Data warehousing involves taking data from a main computer for analysis without slowing down the main computer.
Data validation guarantees to your application that every data value is correct and accurate.
In every industry there is need for managers to plan and direct the activities of all organizational functions. Industries that use computers employ ELECTRONIC DATA PROCESSING (EDP) MANAGERS to control the various activities related to the operation of the firm's mainframe computer or its client-server network, as well as all of the peripheral equipment.
In some firms, an EDP Manager may be responsible only for computer production like data entry, data control, equipment scheduling, and quality control.
System Analyst evaluates, designs and tests computer systems. He also liaises with programmers and users of processed data.
Programmer prepares flowcharts (which show how transactions are processed by the system), programs, documents and tests software programs.
Computer Operator runs data through computer system using programs. They need access to computer and data. However, they should not be able to change com-puter system or programs.
Data Entry operator converts data into machine-readable form. Data entry operator inputs data on the computer. And computer automatically updates automatically.
Computer operators and data entry operators are confused to be the same. How-ever, in the context of Electronic Data Processing organization, both have different responsibilities.
Data Entry Operator is specific to the responsibility of data entry only while Com-puter Operators do not do data entry. Their responsibility is whatever different.
Librarian needs access to electronic copies of data, systems documentation, and programs. They are just like traditional librarians. They do not read books, nor write books, nor edit books but caretaker and organizer of the books.
Data control group monitors input of sales orders by data entry operator and liaises with sales department to determine whether the account receivable print-out is cor-rect. This group needs access to data but should not have access to computer, computer system, or programs.
A data center is a facility used to house computer systems and associated components, such as telecommunications and storage systems. It generally includes redundant or backup power supplies, redundant data communications connections, environmental controls (air conditioning, fire suppression, etc.), and special security devices.
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