Electronic data processing (EDP) in MIS
The collection of data via electronic devices, including computers, servers, and internet of things (IoT) technologies, is known as electronic data processing (EDP). It is another word for information processing that is done automatically.
Additionally, it entails data analysis, summarization, and recording of the results in a format that can be used by humans. Data processing gave rise to the idea of EDP. The phrase first appeared during a time when punch cards were typically used to physically supply the majority of computing input to computing equipment. The results of the applications were displayed as a printed report or on punch cards.
Components of EDP (Electric Data Processing)
There are five major components of EDP:
1. Hardware, or actual equipment
All of the mechanical and electronic components utilized in data processing are referred to as hardware. It serves as the EDP system's structural foundation.
Hardware Types:
A. Input Devices
The devices are used to input raw data into the system.
Examples: a barcode reader, keyboard, and mouse scanner. Cards with magnets Optical Character Reader, or OCR
B. Central Processing Unit (CPU):
The computer's brain is in charge of:
- Calculations Operations based on logic
- Comparing data
- Interpreting directions
- ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) is one of the CPU's components.
- Registers for CUs (Control Units)
C. Storage devices:
Storage devices that store data either temporarily or permanently.
For instance: Hard drive, SSD, pen drive, CD/DVD, and cloud storage Tapes with magnets
D. Devices for Output:
Output Devices Used to display processed information. Monitor Printer Plotter Speakers.
E. Devices for networking:
Networking devices are used to facilitate device-to-device communication. Examples include modems, switches, and routers.
2. Software (Programs & Applications):
Software is a collection of programs or instructions that manage and guide the hardware's data processing.
EDP uses three different kinds of software:
A. Software:
Software for Systems provides a platform for application applications and manages hardware. Examples include Device Drivers Utility Programs and Operating Systems (Windows, Linux).
B. Applications Software:
These programs are made for particular commercial tasks.
For instance: Billing software for payroll systems Software for inventory management Software for banking
3. Procedures
Methods (Rules and Procedures) The rules, regulations, and procedures for using the EDP system are called procedures.
Procedure Types:
A. Methods of Operation
- Procedures for changing the system on and off
- How to utilize software
- How to store files
B. Security Protocols
- Policies for passwords
- Rules for access control
- Guidelines for antivirus software
- Data security measures
4. Personnel (People Involved):
People are an important component of EDP. Even though machines do the work, humans control, manage, and operate them.
Various EDP Employees:
A. Computer Operators
Run the computer, input data, print documents, and keep an eye on systems.
B. Programmers
Create and evaluate software applications.
C. Analysts of systems
Design the EDP system after analyzing the requirements.
D. Administrators of databases (DBA)
Control and safeguard databases.
E. Supervisors and Managers
Organize and keep an eye on EDP activities.
F. Final Users
Users of the system, such as:
- Students use educational applications
- ATM usage by bank clients
- Workers utilizing payroll systems
5. Data (Unprocessed Facts)
The raw material utilized in EDP is data. The system cannot generate information without data.
Data Types:
- Data in numbers: 0–9
- Alphanumeric: letters, numbers, and symbols
- Textual information Pictures, sound, and video
Data Sources:
- Forms Sensors
- Transactions Surveys
- Online inputs
