Data vs Information

Data are plain facts. The word “data” is plural for “datum.” When data are processed, organized, structured or presented in a given context so as to make them useful, they are called Information.
It is not enough to have data (such as statistics on the economy). Data themselves are fairly useless. But when these data are interpreted and processed to determine its true meaning, they becomes useful and can be called Information.
Example:
Data is what you collect, for example you may collect a sample of heights, ages, genders within a given geographic area.
Information is what you extract from that, i.e.: average height by age, or average age by postcode.

Data Management is a critical part of business strategy as it is responsible for the transformation process of data into information. Information is the lifeblood of a business; its health is vital to an organization and is fundamental to your success and competitive edge. Good information reduces uncertainty surrounding decision making, and contributes to aspects such as improved productivity, compliance, and more focused marketing and customer loyalty.

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