Types of processing

Types of processing

1. Batch

   • A batch job is where data is collected together in a group or batch before processing takes place.
   • Transaction files store jobs in queues until the computer system is ready to start processing.
   • When job is run, the data held in the transaction file is used to update the master file.
   • The master file is store on disk and stays the same until any updating takes place by a new transaction file.
   • While running the program there is no interaction between computer and the user. This allows for overnight jobs to be completed using spare capacity in the ICT system.
   • Backing up is fairly simple and can be done after a each new job is run.
   • Best suited to regular jobs that happen at scheduled times and involve large quantities of data.

2. Interactive

   • This is the process where there is interaction between the ICT system and the user.
   • The user reacts to prompts from the computer and the computer uses these prompts to process data.
   • Many computer systems in the modern world work this way.
   • The interaction occurs in real time and the input-process-output is controlled by the user.
   • The computer is available to receive the input from the user.
   • The data is processed at the time it is input and output is also immediate.

3. Transaction

   • Transaction processing allows many users to access and update a system at apparently the same time.
   • Each transaction must be completed before the next transaction is begun.
   • The main aim of a transaction processing system is to be able to work quickly with a large amount of different transactions taking place, sometimes from many different users.
   • A travel booking systems or when purchasing cinema tickets using the ICT booking systems
   • Booking systems on an airline are immediate if a seat has already been booked. This is to avoid double booking, payment is also made instant with credit cards as well as being able to cancel and refund payment.