Difference Between Data and Information

• Data is raw material for data processing. data relates to fact, event and transactions. Data refers to unprocessed information.

Data

1. The word ‘Data’ is derived from the plural form of latin word ‘Datum’, which means ‘to give’.
2. Originated at mid 17th century.
3. Data is a collection of raw facts.
4. May or may not be meaningful.
5. Input to any system may be treated as Data.
6. Understanding is difficult.
7. Data must be processed to understand.
8. Data may not be in the order.
9. Example: Statistics, numbers, characters, images.

Information is data that has been processed in such a way as to be meaningful to the person who receives it. it is any thing that is communicated.

Information

1. The word ‘Information’ is derived from latin word ‘Informare’, which means ‘to instruct’.
2. Originated at late middle time.
3. Information is the outcome derived after processing the data.
4. Information is always meaningful.
5. Output after processing the system is Information.
6. Understanding is easy.
7. Information is already in understandable form, it may be processed further to make it more understandable.
8. Information should be in the order.
9. Example Reports, Knowledge.