Design of Data Entry

Design of Data Entry

1. Input

   • Making sure that data is entered accurately and efficiently is very important.
   • Will need to take in to account: What form the data takes, how much data there is, how often it is input and what devices are available.

2. Data Capture Devices

   • Such as bar code readers.
   • Useful when lots of data is entered as they are often quicker than manual entry.
   • May have built in error-checking.
   • The large amount of data could cause RSI for a human so automatic entry is beneficial

3. Validation

   • A method of checking data to try to reduce the number of errors.
   • Examples: A presence check, A range check or a format check.
   • A length check, list or look up check, cross field check or check digit.

4. Verification

   • Can reduce but not completely remove data entry errors.
   • Good for avoiding transcript errors, errors made by the user not entering the data exactly as it was written on the form.