Data entry can be described as the process of transferring one form of data into another. Data can be in the form manuals, spreadsheets, dictated, handwritten, computer codes or just a jumble of words. These people may be classified into typists, word processors or data entry keyers.

Typists are usually in charge of preparing letters, reports, statistical analysis, nailing lists while data entry keyers are responsible for keying large amounts of data in the forms of numbers, lists, items, stock, in addition to proofreading and cross verification of existing data. Data entry jobs are entry-level jobs and usually people in data entry are undergraduates or high school pass outs. An additional knowledge in typing is welcome and usually fresher's are hired and provided on the job training. A lot of focus and concentration is required. After gaining experience they move to administrative roles such as secretaries, executive assistants, clerks or a supervisory role. They can also specialize in a particular type of data entry depending on their specialization during graduation say banking, insurance, healthcare etc.

The demand is huge for the outsourcing of data entry services from countries all over the world so the opportunities are also high. With the growth of the information technology enabled services (ITES) sector and internet there are tremendous opportunities to do data entry work from home. There are a huge numbers of options on the internet for those who wish to avail of them. In comparison to working eight hours a day freelance workers choose their own working hours.

The advantage is that this allows them flexibility and better work life balance as compared to a regular worker. Another advantage of data entry is that a person does not need any particular qualification or specific skill set and an average student can also get into data entry. However data entry in itself can tend to get a little monotonous and at times tiresome. Also with the coming up of new technologies there is a decline in the industry and soon data entry jobs might become redundant.

There is also a risk of scam jobs with regard to Online data entry. Various companies advertise attractively on the internet and through network marketing promising large amounts of money and excellent job opportunities for a small sum of money. Some of them even promise franchises for a particular deposit. Most of these are fraudulent and disappear without a trace. A genuine organization will not charge employees anything for employment. Having said this there are organizations that provide genuine opportunities online and otherwise.

The developing information technology enabled services (ITES) sector in India has resulted in a growth in the opportunities for data entry professionals and operators. A large number of organizations have set up base across the country and home based data entry is gaining popularity as it is convenient for both the organization and individual. Organizations benefit from this due to the low cost involved while individuals enjoy the freedom of working from home and only a computer and internet connection is required. Data entry is gaining popularity as it is primarily a non investment scheme.