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Data entry involves transcribing information into a computer program, including handwritten documents, spreadsheets, and computer codes. Good typing skills and accuracy are required, with some specialized fields requiring specific knowledge or training. Scams are common, and the physical toll of sitting and typing all day should be considered. Automation may eventually reduce job opportunities.
Data entry is the act of transcribing some form of information into another medium, usually through input into a computer program. Forms of data that people might write down include handwritten documents, spreadsheet information and sequences of numbers, as well as computer codes and even names and addresses. Some careers are solely involved in data entry, while some workers, such as programmers, may need to enter data occasionally while performing other tasks. Anyone interested in this career should be wary, however, as there are many online “opportunities” that are actually scams and illegitimate jobs.
Job description and skills needed
Good typists, especially those who are also excellent at 10-key typing, are often qualified for data entry positions. 10-key typing uses the 0-9 keys often found on the right side of a computer keyboard, also called the numeric keypad. Most companies that hire people for this job have keystrokes per minute (KPM) requirements, with a high degree of accuracy. These numbers can vary from company to company, but are based on individual keys rather than words.
Some companies use audio input, which a person listens to as they enter data into a computer or similar system. The typist must be able to follow the recording, so that pauses are kept to a minimum. Accuracy is critical in applications such as programming, as the wrong letter, number or symbol can override an entire command function within computer code. For spreadsheets and published or printed documents, typos can lead to misinformation or embarrassing mistakes.
Qualifications
A college degree or particular type of education is usually not required for this field. People can acquire typing skills quickly and accurately through lessons or other methods, such as extensive practice. Some specialized fields may require training in particular software programs or knowledge of subjects such as medicine and anatomy. These opportunities usually pay better than general entry positions, but may require certification, education, or previous experience.
Telework opportunity
With a number of computer systems requiring new information on an almost constant basis, data entry doesn’t have to take place in an office. Many people work outside the home as they enter data, transcribe medical information, or update websites. Some of these opportunities can be found online, although many companies require candidates to enter a testing and training venue. Once completed, the typist may be working on site in that position or may be eligible to work from his or her home.
Scam offers
Anyone wishing to enter the data entry field should be careful to avoid “scam” offers, which promise work in exchange for a fee. Most legitimate sites don’t charge a fee, since the entire purpose of such work is for someone to enter information in exchange for payment. Many of these sites prey on people who want to work from home and often seem too good to be true. Extreme caution should be exercised by anyone approaching a company that sells a book or other service to “help” them find data entry jobs, as many of these offers are scams.
Future changes and automation
In some cases, computers can do data entry by scanning documents and converting the information for different programs. This method and others can eventually kill some jobs. For example, sufficiently accurate speech recognition software could reduce the need for medical transcriptionists. Anyone working in this field should look for ways to acquire additional skills, such as knowledge of computer programming languages, to become more attractive as job opportunities become limited.
physical toll
Data entry requires attention and concentration, which can be mentally exhausting and physically demanding. It’s important for people sitting and typing all day to pay attention to maintaining good posture, typing in an ergonomic position, and taking eye and hand breaks. Most workplace ergonomics experts suggest that people sitting at a computer for extended periods of time should take a break at least once an hour and step away from the computer screen. Hand and body stretching exercises can help prevent health problems like carpal tunnel syndrome.
