Data processing is, generally, "the collection and manipulation of items of data to produce meaningful information."[1] In this sense it can be considered a subset of information processing, "the change (processing) of information in any manner detectable by an observer." [note 1]

The term Data processing (DP) has also been used previously to refer to a department within an organization responsible for the operation of data processing applications.[2]

Data processing functions[edit]
Data processing may involve various processes, including:

Validation – Ensuring that supplied data is correct and relevant.
Sorting – "arranging items in some sequence and/or in different sets."
Summarization – reducing detail data to its main points.
Aggregation – combining multiple pieces of data.
Analysis – the "collection, organization, analysis, interpretation and presentation of data.".
Reporting – list detail or summary data or computed information.
Classification – separates data into various categories.