Processing Stored Data:
There are several methods of processing data files in a computer system. The approach chosen depends firstly on management requirements. These may be:
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Routine recording of data
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Preparation of regular management information
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Fact retrieval for decision-making
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Management priorities
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Regularity of processing
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Response time required
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Volume of processing
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Accuracy required
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Cost
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Efficiency and security of processing
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Storage media used
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Access to data (regular or irregular)
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Budget (availability of finance purchase equipment)
Methods of Processing Stored Data:
a. Batch Processing/ Offline Processing/ Stack Processing:
b. Online Processing/ Real-Time Processing;
a. Batch Processing/ Offline Processing/ Stack Processing:
In this mode data to be processed is accumulated over a period of time and processed periodically. It is also known as stack processing because several jobs are stacked together and processed in groups (batches) for efficient operations. It is used for office work like accounts, payroll, etc.
A group of similar (routine) transactions are processed in the same processing-run. Input data could be entered into the system over a period of time, or at the same time. But the actual processing of the data commences only when the transactions data collection is complete and is held in a transactions files.
A classic example of batch processing is an organization's payroll. Typically, the wages section records transaction into small batches (e.g. one per department). In this way, most input data is in smaller collections.
This mode was formerly the major form of processing. It is still the most logical methods of dealing with large transactions volumes at a specific time.
| Batch Processing |
| Advantages |
Disadvantages |
- Error detection is simpler
- No special hardware/software is needed (all computer systems should be able to adopt this).
- System design is simple
- If necessary, some part may be processed now and the remainder later.
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- The system is time-driven and so is not geared to rapid action
- Preparing batches results in duplication of efforts
- Slow
- Delays decision making process
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b. Real-Time Processing/ Online Processing/ Interactive Processing:
Each transaction is processed as soon as at it received, there being no waiting time for accumulation of a batch of transactions. Complete which can receive and process data quickly are capable for real-time processing. It is used where immediate response is required like, banks, inventory systems, etc
| Online processing |
| Advantages |
Disadvantages |
- A higher level of costumer satisfaction is achieved
- Information needed is obtained by adopting very simple procedures
- Prompts and early information assists in improving and maintaining the quality of management decisions
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- The system is relatively high-cost (in terms of hardware and software)
- A high level of security is required
- System failure could causes great organization problems
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