A data entry clerk is a member of staff employed to enter or update data into a computer system. Data are often entered into a computer from paper documents using a keyboard, optical scanner, or data recorder.The keyboards used can often have specialist keys and multiple colors to help in the task and speed up the work. Proper ergonomics at the workstation is a common topic considered.
While requisite skills can vary depending on the nature of the data
being entered, few specialized skills are usually required, aside from
touch typing proficiency with adequate speed and accuracy. The ability
to focus for lengthy periods is necessary to eliminate or at least
reduce errors. When dealing with sensitive or private information such
as medical, financial or military records, a person's character and
discretion become very relevant as well; training on confidentiality,
for instance, in the compliance of HIPAA. Beyond c traits, no technical knowledge is generally required and these jobs can even be worked from home.
Job security
The job is usually low-skilled, so veteran staff are often employed on a temporary basis
after a large survey or census has been completed. However, most
companies handling large amounts of data on a regular basis will spread
the contracts and workload across the year and will hire part-time.
The role of data entry clerks working with physical hand-written
documents is on the decline in the developed world, because employees
within a company frequently enter their own data, as it is collected
now, instead of having a different employee do this task. An example of
this is an operator working in a call center or a cashier
in a shop. Cost is another reason for the decline. Data entry is
labor-intensive for large batches and, therefore, expensive, so large
companies will sometimes outsource the work to third world countries
where there is no shortage of cheaper unskilled labor.
Education and training
For the job as a data entry clerk, one must possess competent math and English skills. The worker will need to be very familiar with office software such as word processors, databases, and spreadsheets.One must have quickness, focus, and great customer service skills.
or the job as a data entry clerk, one must possess competent math and English skills. The worker will need to be very familiar with office software such as word processors, databases, and spreadsheets.One must have quickness, focus, and great customer service skills.
Education higher than a high school diploma is often not required, but some companies require a bachelor's degree. Companies also hope the worker will have one year of experience in a related field.