Data and information are related to each other but they differ in many ways especially in their meanings. Here are five examples on how they differ from each other:
- Data are facts while information are interpreted facts
When we talk about data, they are facts that people gather based on their observation and experiences. They are raw facts which people gather. Meanwhile, information is what becomes of these data. They are interpreted facts based on the data gathered.
- Data is based from records and observations while information is based on research
Most data are just simple records of facts or observations. They're often written down on a sheet of paper or stored in one's brain. On the other hand, information is more factual in nature. They're also more reliable since they're backed by research. Often, they're gathered from experts such as scientists and researchers.
- Data are mere numbers and figures while information give meaning to these numbers and figures
When we talk about data we refer to the numbers and figures we often see in our math textbooks. They come in the form of graphs, timelines, fractions, decimals, ratio and proportion, and many more. But once these are interpreted and given meaning to they become information.
- Data lack meaning while information are meaningful
Indeed, numbers and figures alone lack meaning. They can never tell you something unless they are interpreted and explained. This is what data are. On the contrary, information are full of meanings. They're data which are explained or interpreted to be understood by individuals.
- Data are valueless while information are useful and valuable
Data alone are meaningless. What's the use of gathering them if you don't know what they are about or what they stand for? Information on the other hand are something you can readily understand and use. You can benefit a lot from information since you can apply them in your daily life.