information (data) The result of applying data processing to data, giving it context and meaning. Information can then be further processed to yeild knowledge.
People or computers can find patterns in data to perceive information, and information can be used to enhance knowledge. Since knowledge is prerequisite to wisdom, we always want more data and information. But, as modern societies verge on information overload, we especially need better ways to find patterns. 1234567.89 is data. "Your bank balance has jumped 8087% to $1234567.89" is information. "Nobody owes me that much money" is knowledge. "I'd better talk to the bank before I spend it, because of what has happened to other people" is wisdom. Last updated: 2007-09-10
