11 IPT
Non-computer methods & Issues
Non-computer tools for analysing
Information technology is not always a suitable tool for analysing data. It is often necessary to compare
and contrast computer and non-computer tools for analysis on the basis of speed, volume of data and
cost. The following are some of the non-computer tools used for analysis.
• Searching manual filing systems to retrieve documents depends on how accurately the data has been
organised and sorted. If the filing system has not been regularly updated and irrelevant material
removed, searching may be time-consuming and frustrating. An appropriate organisation of files is
needed if data is to be easily retrieved and analysed.
• Simulations often involve using complex mathematical processes. A set of rules, relationships and
procedures are specified. During the simulation these mathematical processes are analysed. In addition
to gaining an understanding of the system, the simulation may result in new rules or even a new
situation. Simulations range from using simple pen and paper models to complex interactive computer
systems. For example, researchers may use simulation techniques to carry out experiments instead of
using rare materials or expensive equipment.
Activity:
1. List two non-computer tools used for analysis.
2. What are some of the advantages of using a non-computer simulation
rather than a computer-based one?
Social and ethical issues
The widespread use of information technology has raised a number of ethical issues. The following are
some issues that relate specifically to analysing data.

Unauthorised analysis of data occurs when people gain illegal access to an information
system. The theft of information and its subsequent analysis is a major concern for any
organization

The incorrect analysis of data results in inaccurate information. If data has been poorly
organised or an inappropriate model used to represent a situation, the analysis will be wrong. It
is very costly for organisations to make decisions based on inaccurate information.

Privacy is eroded by linking databases for analysis. Most people in pursuit of society’s benefits
readily give information about themselves to selected organizations. They may also leave a trail
of electronic data when they use a credit card, visit the doctor, use the library, access the
Internet or subscribe to a magazine. If data from these sources is combined it can create an
accurate picture of a person’s habits, expenditure patterns and tastes. Those people can then be
targeted very precisely by advertisers. Using information technology to combine and analyse
personal data in this way is known as ‘data warehousing’ or ‘data mining’. On the other hand,
organisations need to have information to allow them to operate efficiently. Governments need
information to provide services to the community, such as schools, hospitals and other social
support organizations. Doctors must have access to patients’ medical histories to treat them, and
banks need proof of customers’ credit records to provide loans. The personal data stored by
information technology enables us to maintain our high standard of living. Invasion of privacy
is not a new problem. It has always been possible for information to fall into the wrong hands.
Activity:
1. How can your privacy be eroded if databases are linked for analysis?
2. What is the link between the analysis process and decision-making?
Analysing Tools
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