February 28, 2025

Differences between data and information

 

The interchange of the words data and information is widespread, but M150 should help you to develop a clearer understanding of the differences between the two.

Data

  • Facts, statistics used for reference or analysis.
  • Numbers, characters, symbols, images etc., which can be processed by a computer.
  • Data must be interpreted, by a human or machine, to derive meaning
  • "Data is a representation of information" *
  • Latin 'datum' meaning "that which is given"
  • Data plural, datum singular (M150 adopts the general use of data as singular. Not everyone agrees.)

Information

  • Knowledge derived from study, experience (by the senses), or instruction.
  • Communication of intelligence.
  • "Information is any kind of knowledge that is exchangeable amongst people, about things, facts, concepts, etc., in some context." *
  • "Information is interpreted data" *

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