Data Input Principles
Module G08c
Contents
Audience and Objectives
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The GIGO principle
Garbage In, Garbage Out
-- or --
What the computer puts out is only as accurate as what you put in!
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Data entry in computer systems:
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The most expensive part (Why?)
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The most inaccurate part (Why?)
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The most unpleasant part (Why?)
What solutions do YOU see?
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Data Entry Solutions
Keep human data entry to a minimum:
capture the keystrokes
Three ways to improve data entry:
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Human or manual precautions
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Software precautions
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Hardware precautions
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1. Human or manual precautions:
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Solo proofreading: Always necessary!
(Difficult to be objective)
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Team proofing: Better than solo
(But can occasionally lead to emotional problems - me against you)
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Avoiding data entry as a person's only job
Only do data entry for limited periods during the day.
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2. Software precautions:
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Check-digit systems
Credit cards, ID numbers...but good only with numbers.
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Interactive database checking...for facts stored in the computer
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Given one fact, look it up and verify immediately.
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Example: Grocery store checkout
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Scanner reads inventory number printed on product;
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Computer looks up number, returns price & description.
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3. Hardware precautions:
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Specialized keyboards
Numeric, cash register, fast-food, Dvorak
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Reading devices:
OMRs, MICR, OCRs, barcodes.
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Audience:
This is an outline for presentation by an instructor during lecture/discussion.
The students are expected to have only basic familiarity with computer
principles, including the basics of input and output. (Modules G1c-G6c
are designed to provide that basic familiarity.)
Objectives
When you successfully complete this lesson, you will be able to...
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Define the "GIGO" principle: Garbage In, Garbage out;
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Discuss the cost of data entry relative to other phases of computer operation;
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Explain the consequences of inaccuracy in data entry;
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Explain the heart of systems accuracy measures: capturing keystrokes.
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Discuss human accuracy measures: primarily proof-reading;
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Discuss software accuracy measures: data file check and check-digits;
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Discuss hardware accuracy measures: verifying data entry, specialized keyboards.
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About this document...
Module G08c: Data Input Principles
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Author:
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Laurence
J. Krieg
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Institution:
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Department
of Computer Information Systems,
Washtenaw
Community College
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Date:
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Originally written 13 Feb 1988
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Revised 28 Jan 1991; HTML version 6 Feb 1996; Review added 5 Feb 1999
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Review:
G08cr
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