Information Processing Cycle IP10

What is the Information Processing Cycle? These are the steps that are taken to convert raw facts, which is data, into information. It starts with data collection. The 4 basic operations of the information processing cycle are input, processing, output, storage and/or distribution. A computer is the machine that performs the cycle.

IP Cycle:

Start with a cow: The cow is at the beginning of the IP Cycle. This is the origination- Putting through thoughts into words. This is dealing with raw data or facts that have been collected already.

Production: Eating is just a natural part of life for cows. This the production part of the information processing cycle. Production-Keying the originators text into the computer.

Process: Milk is used for many different kinds of good foods. This action of milking the cow can be considered part of the process- editing, proofreading and revisions.

Output: After milking the cows, farmers have to get the milk ready to transport to the manufacturer. This is the Output part of the IP Cycle. Output- printing out the document (hardcopy) of reading it from the screen (softcopy)

Storage: Once the manufacturer has the milk, the milk has to be pasteurized. This is can be considered the storage part of the cycle. Storage-saving the document on a USB or filing it in a filing cabinet.

Replication: Once the milk is pasteurized it can be made into many different kinds of milk products. This is like Replication- making copies of the document.

Distribution: Finally, the products are sent to retail stores so that we can buy them. This is Distribution- getting the finished documents to the receiver by hand or electronically (fax or email).

Your Analogy! Your assignment now is to come up with your own Information Processing Cycle analogy. You must be creative with your analogies. They must include: Origination, Production, Process, Output, Storage, Replication, and Distribution.

Analogy Cont’d: You can use any object, animal or food for your analogies. Here are some examples: Dishwasher Car Sandwiches Washing Machine Bison

Analogy Cont’d: You can work in pairs or you can do this on your own. Remember to keep the analogies clean and appropriate! PLUS!! You will be presenting these analogies to the class on Monday Sept.15. As well, you must show the connection between your analogy and the actual Information Processing Cycle.

Remember to Include: Origination- the raw data or facts Production- keying the data into the computer Process- editing and proofreading Output- printing out the document Storage- saving the document Replication- making copies Distribution- emailing finished product