What Is Alphanumeric Data Entry?

Data input is necessary for many different job types. Any time information must be pulled from a manual source and transferred into an electronic source, data entry is typically required. This is especially true if the data that must be electronic have to be manipulable. Otherwise stated, if there may ever be a need to change or edit the data, they can't simply be scanned in as an image.
Data that do not need to be edited--but that still need to be available across multiple systems or databases that share information with one another--must often be in a format that's more recognizable to other systems than an image can provide. It's also sometimes less cost-efficient to have data entry workers input the data than to purchase a scanning and optical character recognition system.

Alphanumeric Data Entry

Data entry that requires the input of letter characters and number characters into an electronic environment is called alphanumeric data entry. Although a lot of data entry jobs only require numbers to be entered from a 10-key keyboard, the majority of these positions require some alphanumeric work to be performed on occasion, if not regularly.

Speed

Companies with alphanumeric data entry jobs primarily hire based upon keystroke speed. Speed is measured in keystrokes per hour rather than words per minute as it is described for regular typing. Most jobs require that alphanumeric data entry operators type between 7,000 and 12,000 KPH.

Accuracy

The second most important factor for an alphanumeric data entry clerk is the rate of accuracy. An acceptable rate of accuracy for an individual employed in this position is 95 percent. Different companies have different standards.

Testing

There are many performance tests available in order to determine alphanumeric data entry speed and accuracy level. Free tests are available online. Software is available to be purchased for these tests. Most employment agencies require these tests be completed and passed before placing a clerical worker in this role.

Employment

Alphanumeric data entry is utilized in companies that perform data collection and data entry contracting services. Most office jobs require some amount and type of alphanumeric data entry to be performed by all administrative staff. Many retail positions also require some alphanumeric data entry tasks to be performed.

References

• Alphanumeric: Merriam Webster Online
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Data Entry

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish