Data Entry
Data entry is defined as “the process of transcribing some form of data into a new form that is generally a computer program”.
The items to be transcribed are information from spreadsheets, hand-written materials, sequences of letters, numbers and symbols that are used to construct a program or basic information such as names, addresses and telephone numbers.
Who performs data entry?
The need to assemble and neatly present data requires data entry. Most people who perform these operations are good typists in general and are also good at 10-key operations. They are also good at reading from hand-written documents and are accurate and detail-oriented. Accuracy is required to prevent errors that can throw off a program’s entire command function. Typos can also result in misinformation in spreadsheets and other documents. Therefore, a competent data entry person must be capable of good focus and concentration and also needs the ability to spend long hours at the computer.
While many companies employ data entry clerks as staff members, this is a field that has been using outsourcing for projects more and more often. Since most data entry assignments do not have to be performed within a company’s office environment and can readily be done at home, many freelancers now make a living by handling data entry assignments from their home computers.
What do data entry people handle?
Today, the need for processing information by computer has given rise to a big increase in the amount of information that must be entered into computer programs in order to generate records and statistical information. Therefore, data entry projects are dealing with areas such as medical records, patient surveys, loyalty card enrollment forms, health insurance enrollment forms and records, product registrations, credit card applications, warranty cards, customer lists and records, product lists, contest entries, property appraisal forms and records, legal property descriptions and all types of invoices and billing forms. The proliferation of personal computers have made it possible for competent data entry people to perform multiple assignments for companies worldwide at much lower cost than internal employees would require.
What are the requirements to perform data entry?
For company employees, companies generally hire high school graduates who can demonstrate good keyboard speed and an organized, focused approach to getting the job done. Some experience in allied functions such as word processing or simple data entry is also a plus. Spelling, punctuation and grammar skills are also considered along with a reasonable familiarity with standard office equipment.
For outsource data entry providers, basic skills in typing, word processing and computer programs such as Excel are helpful. In addition, prior training in high school, community college, business school or with temporary help agencies is always a plus.
In looking for data entry work, avoid the scammers
People interested in seeking an income through data entry outsource assignments should be aware that there are many scams being perpetrated, especially via the Internet. These are best avoided by steering clear of anyone offering data entry work that requires any cash outlay up front.
