Garbage In Garbage Out (GIGO) warns that incorrect data input will result in incorrect output. The term originated in programming, but is applicable to other industries. Computers process any information without judgment, so it’s important to double-check data and coding. GIGO can lead to unintended results and errors, but can be avoided by being aware of the fallibility of computers. The principle applies to many aspects of life, emphasizing the importance of using good quality ingredients or systems.
Garbage In Garbage Out (GIGO) is popular computer slang for “if you enter the wrong data, the results will be wrong too”. The term originated in the programming community, where instructors remind students that they need to check and double-check their data and coding to ensure the results are valid. The term is also widely used in other industries, especially in the recording industry, where people emphasize the need for good equipment. In this case, a poor initial recording will result in a low quality album.
George Fuechsel, an early IBM programmer, is generally credited with coining the term. He reminded students that computers will process any type of information you provide without judgment or an eye for accuracy. If a mistake is made in the program, however small, it can cause Garbage In Garbage Out and thus create an unintended result. As long as people are aware of the fallibility of computers, this concept isn’t a big deal, even though it can be frustrating on a major project. However, it becomes a problem when people accept faith information simply because it comes from a computer.
When this happens it is sometimes jokingly referred to as Garbage In Gospel Out. Many computer users are guilty of assuming that computers are foolproof and will always return correct results. This can cause serious problems. On a lesser level, someone may simply have incorrect facts about a situation; at a greater level, someone could base a serious decision on incorrect information.
Programmers try to be aware of the GIGO principle, and indeed many computers have the ability to check code for basic errors. Most of the input data, however, still needs to be re-read, especially if it is complex and filled with multiple arguments, as is usually the case in advanced computing. This is one reason why scientists like to confirm data with other scientists, to make sure their calculations are correct.
The principle of Garbage In Garbage Out can apply to many things in life. Cooking with poor quality ingredients often results in a disappointing meal. Similarly and on a more serious level, students suffering from poor education often struggle to succeed in life. The lesson is to make sure something is good quality before you use it, whether it’s a code or a new central heating system.
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