Question

In 100 words or more, Distinguish information from data. How is the quality of information determined? List the qualities that determine an information’s usefulness.

Answer 1

Data is nothing but the information that is available everywhere in different forms. It can be number, alphabet or symbols that are unorganized in structure which forms ideas or objects. Example experimental data that is collected by observation and recording for scientific research. Information is nothing but the answer to a question from which data and knowledge can be derived. Information allow us to expand our knowledge. Example political information, environment information etc.

Data become information when it is processed, analyzed and interpreted. Any work in an organization requires information about different things. Information plays key role in any business. Example - Customer information is processed based on the data collected from the customers. These data are structured and integrated into central data base. It makes the customer information organized so that the relevant data can be retrieved easily.

Information is processed data that are arranged and organized. Information is available in less quantity which is used to take important decisions. It is very important to maintain high quality information because these are very important in decision making process.

The characteristics of information that affect quality include are: -

• Information should be accurate and contain data's that can be used appropriately to make important decisions. Accurate data will provide effective outcome that will be beneficial. If the information is inaccurate, the outcome will be ineffective. Example - accurate sales information will help the organization to make effective marketing strategy to improvise the sales.
• Information should be complete and provide all details required to make important decisions. Participle information may not give accurate results. Example - complete information about code of conduct and guidelines of an organization help the employees to act accordingly.
• Information should be consistent and should maintain accuracy. Consistent information will provide clear direction on taking the decision. Inconsistent information will make the decision making process difficult. Example - consistent information on the total number of sales made and demand for the products will help the operation team to manufacture the products accordingly.
• Information should be unique and must not be repetitive. Unique information provides accurate results. Example - information on customers need and perception will help the organization to be competitive in the market.
• The important characteristic of information is timeliness. Old information may not be beneficial as compared to the present or current information. Outdated information will prevent the organization from achieving the goals. Hence information should be fresh and current for surviving in this competitive world. Example - information on current market trends or customers’ needs will help the organization to manufacture products accordingly.