Data Conversion Software Key Terms

Learn the lingo before choosing your data conversion software
By Trisha Schulz Upgrading to a new computer system? Don't forget about the old one just yet. You'll want to make sure your important data is securely transferred into the new system. Data conversion software can help you get the job done. Just make sure that the software is compatible with both systems so there aren't any glitches.

To help you choose a software program that best suits your needs, determine what features you will need. The following key terms may help.

Data conversion

Data conversion is simply the act of changing data from one form to another. Software options exist to help you perform this task, but sometimes there is no easy way to do a data conversion. In these cases, some formatting and other data characteristics may be lost during conversion.
Try:  Review this PC Magazine definition and example of how data conversion software works.

Data transformation

Transforming data means that one set of data is changed to a different schema in the same category. Software programs use a series of programming queries to transform the data.
Try:  Check out this tutorial on data transformation from BEA WebLogic Workshop.

Pivot transformation

Pivot transformation refers to a specific way software can convert data. For example, in a pivot transformation an ordered column list is compressed and made into a single line of data.
Try:  See a Microsoft example of how pivot transformation in data conversion works with a customer list.

Data migration

Even though you may be performing a data conversion between similar systems, data migration can help keep large volumes of data from being lost. Data migration refers to the actual moving of data from one system to the next.
Try:  Log on to Infotech.net for more information, including diagrams, explaining data migration.

Data integration

Data integration refers to a process used to combine data from many different sources while at the same time keeping the data secure and reliable.
Try:  Read through this Information Management and SourceMedia article for more information on the forms of data integration.

Parallel processing or parallel computing

Parallel processing, also called multi-processing or parallel computing, is when two or more computer systems run at the same time to perform a function. Data conversion takes place through this coordinated use of dual systems.
Try:  This O'Reilly & Associates article not only gives a solid definition of parallel processing but relates it to a grocery store scenario.