What does the term "batch" refer to in data processing?

The term "batch" in data processing refers to processing large volumes of data all at once. This method is often used in scenarios where data does not need to be processed immediately and can be collected over a period of time before being analyzed. The key characteristic of batch processing is that it involves executing the processing of a dataset in a single operation or job, which can be more efficient for handling large datasets compared to real-time processing.

Batch processing is beneficial in situations where resources can be optimized, as it allows for the scheduling of tasks during off-peak hours to maximize efficiency. It is commonly used for data integration, reporting, and ETL (extract, transform, load) operations. In contrast, real-time processing or streaming would refer to the immediate processing of data as it arrives, which is not the case with batch processing.