Description
Information processing workers help ensure the smooth and efficient handling of information. By keying in text, entering data into a computer, operating a variety of office machines, and performing other clerical duties, these workers help organizations keep up with the rapid changes that are characteristic of today’s “Information Age”. Data entry and information processing workers are known by various other titles, including word processors, typists, and data entry keyers, and less commonly, electronic data processors, keypunch technicians, and transcribers.
2. Data entry and information processing workers also are known as word processors, typists, and data entry keyers, or, less commonly, electronic data processors, keypunch technicians, and transcribers.
3. Word processors and typists set up and prepare reports, letters, mailing labels, and other text material.
4. Some may work with highly technical material, plan and key complicated statistical tables, combine and rearrange materials from different sources, or prepare master copies.
5. Data entry keyers input lists of items, numbers, or other data, e.g., customers' personal information, medical records, or membership lists, into computers or complete forms that appear on a computer screen.
6. They also may reformat existing data, edit current information, or proofread new entries for accuracy.
7. Data entry keyers may use scanners, electronically transmitted files, or other forms of character recognition systems.
8. Generally, these employees work standard workdays, but technology allows many to work from remote locations, including home, or during off hours when processing demands are less.
The United States of America: $37,000 a year
Australia: AU$40,000 a year
Tasks:
1. Data entry and information processing workers enter data into a computer, operate a variety of office machines, and perform other clerical or administrative duties.2. Data entry and information processing workers also are known as word processors, typists, and data entry keyers, or, less commonly, electronic data processors, keypunch technicians, and transcribers.
3. Word processors and typists set up and prepare reports, letters, mailing labels, and other text material.
4. Some may work with highly technical material, plan and key complicated statistical tables, combine and rearrange materials from different sources, or prepare master copies.
5. Data entry keyers input lists of items, numbers, or other data, e.g., customers' personal information, medical records, or membership lists, into computers or complete forms that appear on a computer screen.
6. They also may reformat existing data, edit current information, or proofread new entries for accuracy.
7. Data entry keyers may use scanners, electronically transmitted files, or other forms of character recognition systems.
8. Generally, these employees work standard workdays, but technology allows many to work from remote locations, including home, or during off hours when processing demands are less.
Key skills for an information processing operator:
- Analytical thinking
- Precision
- Good language skills in spelling, grammar, and punctuation
- Good computer skills
- Attention to detail
- Advanced reading skills
Average salary (2014):
The United Kingdom: £20,000 a yearThe United States of America: $37,000 a year
Australia: AU$40,000 a year
Qualifications and training required:
Information processing operators do not need a formal college education to land an entry level position, but some exposure to office systems and keyboarding practices can help clerks that are new to the role. Though many employers hire high school students or recent graduates as information processing operators, successful operatorsmay learn computing and keyboarding skills at community colleges, universities, technical or vocational schools, Internet classes or even through self-paced courses.