Manual Data Processing
Although the term “data processing” has only been widely used since the 1950s, data processing functions have been performed manually for thousands of years. For example, accounting includes functions such as transacting and creating reports such as balance sheets and cash flow statements. Completely manual methods have been supplemented by the use of mechanical or electronic calculators. The person whose job it was to make calculations by hand or with a calculator was called a “computer.

The 1890 U.S. Census schedule was the first in which data were collected by individuals rather than by households. A number of questions could be answered by checking the appropriate box on the form. From 1850 to 1880, the Census Bureau used a “counting system which, because of the increasing number of combinations of classifications required, became increasingly complex. Only a limited number of combinations could be recorded in one count, so it was necessary to process the schedules 5 or 6 times to get as many independent accounts as possible.” “It took more than 7 years to publish the results of the 1880 census” using manual methods.

Automatic Data Processing
The term automatic data processing was applied to operations performed with a unit recording device, such as Herman Hollerith’s use of punch card equipment for the 1890 U.S. Census. “Using Hollerith’s punch card equipment, the Census Bureau was able to complete the tabulation of most of the 1890 census data in 2-3 years, compared to 7-8 years for the 1880 census… It is estimated that the use of Hollerith’s system saved about $5. million in processing costs “in 1890, although there were twice as many questions as in 1880.

Electronic Data Processing.
Computerized Data Processing, or Electronic Data Processing represents a later development using a computer instead of several independent pieces of equipment. The Census Bureau first made limited use of electronic computers for the 1950 U.S. Census, using the UNIVAC I system delivered in 1952.

Other developments
The term “data processing” basically referred to the more general term information technology (IT). The old term “data processing” is suggestive of old technology. For example, in 1996, the Data Processing Management Association (DPMA) changed its name to the Association of Information Technology Professionals. Nevertheless, the terms are roughly synonymous.