Mining versus querying

Data querying is the process of asking specific, structured questions of data in search of a specific answer, while data mining is the process of sifting through data to identify patterns and relationships using statistical algorithms.

The following matrix may help the data developers in gaining an understanding of the differences between data querying and data mining:

Example	Data querying or mining
What was the total number of technical books sold last month worldwide?	Data querying
What factors affected the type of technical books sold worldwide last month?	Data mining
How many different technologies' technical books were sold last quarter?	Data querying
Which technologies were purchased as part of a set?	Data mining
Does a technology tend to be purchased in hardcopy or electronic version?	Data mining
Which technical books have repeat customers?	Data mining
Which is the most sold technical book overall?	Data querying

Once again, data querying is about reporting the results of events...