While big data is a famous buzzword, embracing it without understanding it fully can put companies at a disadvantage. Harnessing data for constructive purposes requires organizations to think about the population that data represents. Since investing in a big data overhaul could be an expensive, time consuming proposition, a more adaptable solution helps keep the focus on the positive aspects of the current data structure.
"In some cases, relational databases and other smaller tools are sufficient."
In a Columbus Business First article, contributor Carrie Ghose looked at the way big data is more appropriate for companies ill-served by their current databases. If the data companies need to address is in a high volume, arrives too quickly or remains unstructured, big solutions broaden the storage organizations have at their disposal. In some cases, relational databases and other smaller tools are sufficient.
CEO Hillary Mason of Fast Forward Labs cited the importance of context when assessing data in a recent discussion with the Wall Street Journal. She also claimed that data is often treated as a "liability."
"Often people think that individual data is the most valuable thing they can collect," she said. "But it's not useful to know what I am doing or where I am, unless you're particularly interested in me, which is weird. But it is very useful to know what a population of people are doing."
With the right systems to fit their data usage, businesses have the means to transition functions seamlessly to new devices with a web based terminal emulator. Placing necessary functions in a browser-friendly environment may give IT managers a way to respond to the organization's needs.