A management information system document defines data processing as the collection and manipulation of data to produce meaningful information. It discusses electronic data processing as the use of automated methods to process commercial data using simple and repetitive activities to handle large volumes of similar information. Examples provided include stock updates, banking transactions, airline reservations, and utility billing. The document also defines a data processing system as a combination of machines and people that takes inputs and produces defined outputs, and lists types of data processing systems and common data processing functions.