By itself, raw data doesn’t look like much or mean much, but it has the potential to be processed for analysis. Show Processed data comes from raw data and is typically easier to understand, better displayed, and leads to actionable insights, but you have less freedom and initial visibility into what happens with the data set. Raw data, then, is like an uncracked egg, while processed — or cooked — data is like scrambled eggs served on a dish. See below to learn about raw data, how it gets processed, and why it matters for data-driven industries. Learn more about big data with our courses on TechRepublic Academy! Raw Data
Read Next: What is Data Analysis? What is Raw Data?Raw data is the data that is collected from a source, but in its initial state. It has not yet been processed — or cleaned, organized, and visually presented. Raw data can be manually written down or typed, recorded, or automatically input by a machine. You can find raw data in a variety of places, including databases, files, spreadsheets, and even on source devices, such as a camera. Raw data is just one type of data with potential energy. Examples of Raw DataHere are some examples of data in raw form:
Without organization and analysis, this data isn’t actionable. But all of the information is there to create benchmarks, ask questions, and process the data as well as make visuals to show what’s happening with a data set. More qualitative data examples: What is Qualitative Data? More quantitative data examples: What is Quantitative Data? Raw Data ProcessingData analysts, software, and artificial intelligence (AI) all work to transform raw data into processed data. They start by organizing and cleaning the raw data. One of the most important parts of this process is removing outliers and duplicates within the data set. The next step is an initial analysis that may involve data manipulation. Especially if analysts are analyzing raw data based on human responses to a question, they will look closely at those responses and determine if respondents inaccurately replied to the question in a way that will change the results. Analysts may also review the quality of the question to decide if the responses are relevant for further analysis. Why is Raw Data Important?Raw data serves several purposes, particularly in businesses where full data visibility is key to statistical and predictive analytics. Here are a few reasons why businesses heavily rely on raw data sources:
Raw Data in BusinessRaw data is critical in any line of business where frequent data analysis happens, such as health care, retail, and manufacturing. Without accessible raw data, companies are confined to whatever format processed data comes in, and there’s always the risk the data has been processed in error or is misaligned with strategy. Dr. Diaswati Mardiasmo, Chief Economist at PRD, a real estate firm in Australia, explained why her company relies on raw data for greater integrity and visibility in their data analysis practices. “Access to raw data gives us the chance to view the behind-the-scenes data and also cleanse the data for any anomalies or data imperfections,” Mardiasmo said. “This enhances accuracy and increases trust in any output products.” Working with raw data ensures that you give credible information to your customers and internal departments. Mardiasmo also described raw data as a source of creative freedom for her team. “Raw data allows us to process and analyze the data in a manner that is most suitable and beneficial to us,” Mardiasmo said. “For example, we can choose to display the data in differing timelines, groupings, and data displays. We are not confined to already made data/graphs.” See more: What is a Database Management System? What is the processing of raw data?Data processing is the method of collecting raw data and translating it into usable information. It is usually performed in a step-by-step process by a team of data scientists and data engineers in an organization.
What is raw data also called?Raw data (sometimes called source data, atomic data or primary data) is data that has not been processed for use. A distinction is sometimes made between data and information to the effect that information is the end product of data processing.
What is a processed data called?Answer: Process data is called information. The data that is processed is known as information.
Is raw data is simply called as data?Raw data, also known as primary data, are data (e.g., numbers, instrument readings, figures, etc.) collected from a source.
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