What Is Manual Data Processing?

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Manual data processing refers to data processing that requires humans to manage and process the data throughout its existence. Manual data processing utilizes non-technological tools, which include paper, writing utensils and physical filing cabinets.

Manual data processing is in contrast with automatic data processing in that automatic data processing utilizes technology to store, process and retrieve data. Automatic data processing handles data more rapidly than manual data processing and requires considerably less human interaction than manual data processing. Some everyday applications in which automatic data processing is superior to manual data processing are emergency broadcast signals, security updates and weather advisories.