Definition of data and information.
Data
Data is a collection of raw, unorganized facts and details like text, observations, figures, symbols
and descriptions of things etc. In other words, data does not carry any specific purpose and has
no significance by itself. Moreover, data is measured in terms of bits and bytes – which are basic
units of information in the context of computer storage and processing.
Information
Information is the processed, organized data that is beneficial in providing useful knowledge.
For e.g., the data compiled in an organized way in a research paper provides information about a
particular concept/ topic.
Difference Between Data and Information
Data
Information
Raw data alone is
insufficient for decision
making
Data doesn’t depend on
information.
Information is sufficient for
decision making
Data is an individual unit
that contains raw materials
which do not carry any
specific meaning.
Data is unorganized and
unrefined facts
Information is a group of
data that collectively carries
a logical meaning.
Information depends on
data.
Information comprises
processed, organized data
presented in a meaningful
context
Characteristics Of Information
Subjectivity:
The value and usefulness of information are highly subjective, because what is information for
one person may not be for another.
Relevance:
Information is good only if it is relevant - that is, pertinent and meaningful to the decision maker.
Timeliness:
Information must be delivered at the right time and the right place to the right person.
Accuracy:
Information must be free of errors, because erroneous information can result in poor decisions
and erode the confidence of users.
Completeness:
Information is said to be complete if the decision maker can satisfactorily solve the problem at
hand using that information.
Accessibility:
Information is useless if it is not readily accessible to decision makers, in the desired format,
when it is needed.
Definition of Information System
An information system is a formal, sociotechnical, organizational system designed to collect,
process, store, and distribute information. From a sociotechnical perspective, information
systems are composed by four components: task, people, structure, and technology.