data

Back to DuckDB Data Engineering Glossary

Data refers to raw facts, figures, or information that can be collected, stored, and processed for analysis or decision-making purposes. In the context of data analytics and engineering, data can take various forms such as numbers, text, images, audio, or video. It serves as the foundation for insights, predictions, and business intelligence. Data can be structured (organized in a predefined format like databases), semi-structured (having some organizational properties but not rigid like JSON), or unstructured (lacking a predefined format like social media posts). The quality, quantity, and relevance of data significantly impact the outcomes of analytical processes and machine learning models. Effective data management, including collection, storage, processing, and analysis, is crucial for deriving meaningful insights and driving data-informed decisions in organizations.