DATA VERSUS INFORMATION

1. Data refers to the lowest abstract or a raw input which when processed or arranged makes meaningful output.Data consists of facts and figures that are relatively meaningless to the user. It is not enough to have data (such as statistics on the economy). Data in themselves are fairly useless. In computer parlance, a spreadsheet generally starts out by holding data.
2. When data are processed, organized, structured or presented in a given context so as to make them useful, they are called Information.In computer parlance, a relational database makes information from the data stored within it.
3. Data is the computer's language. Information is our translation of this language.
4. The transformation of data into information is performed by an information processor.
5. The information processor is one of the key elements in the conceptual system and can include:

• Computer components
• Non-computer components
• Combination of the two