Data Collection : Introduction

Many information systems process data that is collected from members of the public who do not know anything about the computer system that is being used. When data must be collected in this way a data collection form (also known as a data capture form) is often used. Data collection forms are designed so that :

• They can be easily and correctly completed by the person filling them in, and,
• So that the information on them can be quickly and accurately transferred into the information system by a computer operator.

Data can often be entered into a computer system quicker and more accurately if a direct data entry (DDE) device is used to transfer the data from the data collection form directly into the computer. This avoids the possibility of a typist making an error when copying data from a form into an information system. However DDE devices are not suitable for inputting some types of data, especically handwritten information.

GCSE ICT Companion 04 - (C) P Meakin 2004