Difference Between Data and Information
The words Data and Information may look similar and many people use these words very frequently, But both have lots of differences between them. Read the following point to point Difference Between Data and Information
Data
- The word ‘Data’ is derived from the plural form of latin word ‘Datum’, which means ‘to give’.
- Originated at mid 17th century.
- Data is a collection of raw facts.
- May or may not be meaningful.
- Input to any system may be treated as Data.
- Understanding is difficult.
- Data must be processed to understand.
- Data may not be in the order.
- Example: Statistics, numbers, characters, images etc which can be interpreted by a computer
- Facts, statistics used for reference or analysis.
- Data must be interpreted, by a human or machine, to derive meaning
- "Data is a representation of information"
Information
The word ‘Information’ is derived from latin word ‘Informare’, which means ‘to instruct’.
Originated at late middle time.
Information is the outcome derived after processing the data.
Information is always meaningful.
Output after processing the system is Information.
Understanding is easy.
Information is already in understandable form, it may be processed further to make it more understandable.
Information should be in the order.
Example Reports, Knowledge.
Knowledge derived from study, experience (by the senses), or instruction.
Communication of intelligence.
"Information is any kind of knowledge that is exchangeable amongst people, about things, facts, concepts, etc., in some context."
"Information is interpreted data"
