Data processing is the collection, organization, storage, manipulation, and movement of data from one source to another. It is a core activity of modern computing, as computers are used to collect, process, and store data. Data can originate from physical data sources such as sensors, or from virtual sources such as web forms and surveys.
Data processing can involve simple operations such as addition and subtraction, or more complex operations such as merging, sorting, searching, and analyzing data. It may take the form of batch processing, where multiple datasets are collected and processed together, or real-time processing, where data is processed as it is received.
Data processing can be used to perform a wide range of tasks, from generating simple reports to creating complex software applications. The raw data collected by the computer must be converted into a usable format before it can be processed. This can involve transforming data into a structured format, or applying various algorithms and rules to the data.
Data processing is also used to create information systems to store, manage, and query data. This includes database management systems, data warehouses, and data visualization tools. The process of data processing often requires the use of specialized software applications or data processing services.
Data processing is an important component of data science and Big Data. It enables data scientists to extract meaningful insights from vast and complex datasets. The results of data processing are essential for the development of artificial intelligence (AI) systems.
