The entire virtual world is a form of data that is continuously being processed. This processing is supplied to the user as part of a cycle known as the data processing cycle. “Data” is the next big thing that will spark a revolution. The availability and processing of data are critical to the growth of numerous sectors. This ongoing consumption and processing of data are cyclic. Depending on the necessity for data processing, this might produce quick results or take time. The complexity of data processing is rising, necessitating the use of new approaches. Big Data is another significant force in this industry.

What is a Data Processing Cycle?

As the name implies, a data processing cycle is a series of processes or operations for processing data, i.e., converting raw data into useful information. A variety of data processing methods are available for processing data.

Stages of Data Processing:

Input: After collecting, raw data must be delivered into the cycle for processing. This is the initial phase and is referred to as input.

Processing: Once the raw data is delivered, it is processed using an appropriate or chosen processing technique. This is the most crucial phase since it outputs the processed data that is used later.

Output: The raw data supplied in the first step is now “processed,” and the data is usable and gives information. It is no more referred to as data.

You might wish to read: Data Integration Solutions: Benefits And Key Features

What Are The Stages Of A Data Processing Cycle?

As previously noted, data processing is divided into three basic phases. Each of them has sub-stages or processes. These are the steps/processes required in between these three main stages. These include data collection, data processing methods, data management best practices, information processing cycle, and using processed data for the intended purpose. In general, the data processing cycle consists of six major steps:

Step 1: Collection

The first step in the data processing cycle is the acquisition of raw data. The raw data obtained has a significant influence on the output produced. As a result, raw data should be collected from defined and accurate sources for future conclusions to be legitimate and useable. Raw data might contain monetary information, a company’s profit/loss accounts, website cookies, user activity, and so on.

Step 2: Preparation

The process of sorting and filtering raw data to remove unnecessary and erroneous data is known as data preparation. Raw data is checked for mistakes, duplication, miscalculations, and missing data before being translated into a format suitable for further analysis and processing. This ensures that only high-quality data is sent to the processing unit. The objective of this stage is to remove poor data (redundant, incomplete, or erroneous data) so that high-quality information may be assembled in the best possible way for business intelligence.

Step 3: Input

The raw data is transformed into machine-readable form and sent into the processing unit in this phase. This can take the form of data entry via a keyboard, scanner, or other input devices.

Step 4: Data Processing

The raw data is processed by numerous data processing methods in this stage, including machine learning and artificial intelligence algorithms, to produce a suitable result. This stage may differ slightly from one procedure to the next based on the data source being processed (data lakes, online databases, linked devices, etc.) and the intended use of the output.

Learn How Automated Data Processing Is Revolutionizing Data Management!

Step 5: Storage

The final stage in the data processing cycle is saving data and metadata for later use. This is called storage. This enables easy access and retrieval of information when needed, as well as immediate usage as input in the next data processing cycle. 

When talking about data processing, you can also get familiar with Big Data Integration: The Benefits and The Challenges.

Step 6: Output

Finally, the data is communicated and displayed to the user in a readable format, such as graphs, tables, vector files, audio, video, documents, and so on. This output can be stored and used in the subsequent data processing cycle.

Also, read about the Data Governing Tools And Why You Should Use Them

Why IntoneSwift?

Data provides a wealth of information that might be beneficial to corporations, researchers, institutions, and individual users. With the increasing quantity of data collected every day, there is a need for better data integration and data management service to assist analyze this data. We at Intone take a people-first approach to data optimization. We are committed to providing you with the best data integration and management service possible, tailored to your needs and preferences. We offer you:

  • Knowledge graph for all data integrations done
  • 600+ Data, and Application and device connectors
  • A graphical no-code low-code platform.
  • Distributed In-memory operations that give 10X speed in data operations.
  • Attribute level lineage capturing at every data integration map
  • Data encryption at every stage
  • Centralized password and connection management
  • Real-time, streaming & batch processing of data
  • Supports unlimited heterogeneous data source combinations
  • Eye-catching monitoring module that gives real-time updates

While you are at it, do not miss to find out the impact of robotic process automation for businesses & Contact us to learn more about how we can help you!