data analysis

data analysis

[′dad·ə ə‚nal·ə·səs]

(computer science)

The evaluation of digital data.

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Scientific & Technical Terms, 6E, Copyright © 2003 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

data analysis

the examination and processing of information gained from studies, such as surveys or experiments. Social data may be analysed by a variety of methods, including CROSS TABULATION, statistical tests (see STATISTICS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS) and computer programmes (e.g. see STATISTICAL PACKAGE FOR THE SOCIAL SCIENCES); punch cards were a common method used to collate information before more sophisticated computer analysis became possible. See also RESEARCH METHODS.

Collins Dictionary of Sociology, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2000

data analysis

An umbrella term for examining data. Data analysis is used to spot trends and discover previously unknown relationships within a business. After requirements are formulated, the data are collected, and duplicates are deleted. There are numerous analytical tools that are applied to the data that generate statistics and forecasts. See big data, data administration and Petabyte Age.

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