Data.pdf
Data
This week we will take a closer look at data, how it is stored and used,
and how it is organized. While it is not expected that you will become
database experts, it is critical that you understand the fundamentals of
how data is stored, arranged, classified, linked together, and secured for
efficiency in providing information. Data is the key to information
systems. Data is the raw facts collected from various transactions and
events throughout an organization. Individually, the data represents a
specific item such as a product code, customer address, invoice amount,
etc. Collectively, information systems transform the data into useful
information. For example, collecting the totals of all the invoices for a
given month lets us know how much was sold. Therefore, if information is
derived from data, it is critical that the data be correct both in content
and format. Accuracy and data integrity enable the organization to rely on
the information to effectively manage, control, plan, and oversee what's
going on in the business.
In today's business environment, there is tremendous power in linking
databases throughout the enterprise to get the right information to the
right people at the right time. In addition, databases can provide strategic
business intelligence to effectively support decision making. However, it's
important to emphasize that ultimately it is the ability of employees and
managers to interpret the information, understand how to apply it
effectively, and use their experience and knowledge that maximizes the
value of the information in their decision making.
Learning Resource
Data
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