Raw dinner ingredients are nice things to have in your kitchen, but they need to be prepared and processed into an actual meal to do people good. So it is with data. That’s why we need data processing.
This article answers the question, “What is data processing?” We will look at the data processing cycle, the types and methods of data processing, some examples, and a look at data processing’s future. We’ll also share a way to learn how to perform data processing through online data science training .
So, what is data processing, anyway?
Data processing is the method of collecting raw data and changing it into usable information. It is typically performed in a multi-step process by an organization’s teams of data scientists and data engineers. The raw data is collected, filtered, sorted, analyzed, processed, stored and provided to the appropriate parties in a readable format.
Data processing is critical for businesses to develop better strategies and sharpen their competitive edge. By changing the data into readable formats like charts, graphs and documents, relevant organization members can comprehend and use the data.
Let’s look at the data processing cycle to see how this works.
Here’s the data processing cycle, broken down into six steps:
Raw data includes website cookies, monetary figures, profit and loss statements, user behavior, etc . Raw data collection starts the data processing cycle. Since the quality and type of the collected raw data impact the output, it should be gathered from accurate and defined sources to produce valid and usable findings.
Data preparation (or data cleaning) sorts and filters the raw data to remove inaccurate and unnecessary data. Raw data is checked for duplication, errors, and incorrect or missing data, then transformed into appropriate forms for further analysis and processing. This step ensures that only the best quality data gets fed into the processing unit.
Next, the raw data is changed into machine readable form and fed into the processing unit. This process can involve data entry through a keyboard, scanner or additional input source.
The raw data is now subjected to different data processing methods using artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to create a desirable output. This step can vary slightly from process to process depending on the processed data’s source (e.g., online databases, data lakes, connected devices, etc.) and the output’s intended use.
The data is finally transmitted and displayed to users in readable forms such as tables, documents, graphs, vector files, audio, video, etc. The output can also be stored and processed in future data processing cycles.
The last step of the cycle involves storage, where data and metadata are stored for further use. This storage process allows for quick future access and information retrieval as needed and lets the information be used directly as input in the subsequent data processing cycle.
There are three accepted methods of data processing.
Many types of data processing are suited to different needs. No two organizations are the same, and having multiple choices for data processing ensures that a company’s unique data needs can be met.
Now, let’s review a small sample of data processing examples.
We can find examples of data processing everywhere today. For instance:
Now, what does the future hold for data processing ?
Big data is the biggest, most significant game-changer in today’s business world. Although it involves dealing with an amazing amount of information, you can’t deny its benefits. That’s why organizations and businesses that want to stay competitive in today’s high-tech digital marketplace need an effective data processing strategy.
Analytics, the field of finding, interpreting, and communicating meaningful patterns in data, is data processing’s logical progression. While data processing changes data from one form to another, analytics takes these newly processed forms of data and makes sense of them.
But regardless of which of these processes data scientists use, the overwhelming volume of data and the analysis of its related processed forms demands superior storage and access capabilities. Fortunately, as we’re about to see, the future holds the answer.
The future of data processing lies in the clouds. Or, to be specific, cloud computing! While the six steps of data processing remain unchanged, cloud technology offers remarkable advances in data processing technology. These innovations give data analysts and scientists the most advanced, fastest, cost-effective and efficient data processing methods.
The cloud allows companies to merge their platforms into one centralized system that’s easy to work with and adjust. Cloud technology permits the seamless integration of new updates and upgrades to legacy systems while offering organizations convenient scalability.
Cloud platforms are also highly affordable and serve to level the playing field between large organizations and smaller companies.
So, it looks like the same IT innovations that gave us big data and its related challenges have also given us the solution. The cloud can handle the massive workloads commonly encountered in big data operations.
Now, let’s talk about your future in data processing.
If you want a career in this exciting, growing field, start with this intense, 24-week data science bootcamp. You will be taught the necessary data science and generative artificial intelligence skills required to upskill your current skillset or help prepare you for a future in data science.
The Glassdoor.com website reports that data scientists in the United States earn an average yearly salary of $129,127. Check out this bootcamp and upgrade your data processing skills. It could very well open new doors for you.
Q: What are examples of data processing?
A: Examples include:
Q: What are the types of data processing?
A: The data processing types are:
Q: What are the stages of data processing?
A: Stages of data processing include:
Q: Why is data processing necessary?
A: Data processing is essential today because it’s needed to handle increasingly larger volumes of data, especially when dealing with big data. Additionally, data processing provides accurate, actionable information that allows companies to create more successful business strategies and remain competitive in today’s high-pressure digital marketplace.
Q: What is data processing software?
A: Data processing software consists of an ordered set of statements or instructions that, when run by a computer, cause it to process the data. This software also includes any program or sets of programs, routines or procedures used to work with and control computer hardware capabilities.
