Exchange of Information
Information can be exchanged between computer users...
  • by transmitting it on a network
  • by using an Internet web site
  • by saving it on a backing storage medium and sending it.
  • by email
  • by telephone
  • by fax
  • by printing it and sending it on paper
  • by talking directly

 

Some of these methods use ICT...some do not.
Information can be exchanged between computer programs...but the information will need to be in an appropriate format.

There is a need for standards - accepted ways in which data is arranged and formatted.

For example, data can be in CSV (comma separated values) format - each item of data is separated by a comma.

Data in CSV format can be imported into a spreadsheet or a database, or even opened in a word processing program.

 

If data is exchanged between two computers, the software must be compatible. Many software packages are now designed to be able to import data created by other software.

For example, it is possible to create a document using Microsoft Word and open it in Lotus WordPro.

 

On-line forms are frequently used on web sites for gathering information. Here are some examples...
  • to order goods from a retail business.
  • to register newly purchased software
  • to sign up for membership of a club or organisation
  • to apply for a new credit card

 

On-line form example