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Definition: Structured Data

Structured Data refers to data that adheres to a predefined data model or schema and is typically organized in a tabular format (rows and columns). This organization makes it easily searchable, sortable, and analyzable using standard database query languages (like SQL) and business intelligence tools.

Key Characteristics:

  • Format: Follows a strict, predefined structure (e.g., database tables, spreadsheets, CSV files).
  • Accessibility: Easily queried and processed by machines.
  • Examples: Relational database tables, Excel spreadsheets, data warehouse tables.
  • Contrast: Often contrasted with Unstructured Data (see definition), which lacks a predefined model. Tools like Helix MARS Data Mining Studio can be used to extract structured information from unstructured sources.