Data entry is the professional term for entering information into a computer or data-recording system using an electronic or mechanical device. Some companies hire workers solely as data-entry clerks or data-entry specialists and others hire employees to fill various roles that might include data entry as part of their general job requirements. A virtual assistant (typically abbreviated to VA, also called a virtual office assistant) is generally self-employed and provides professional administrative, technical, or creative (social) assistance to clients remotely from a home office.