Make big data work for you

Like the age old motivational saying ‘don’t work for money, make money work for you’ Big Data should work the same. There’s an art to any business technique and finding a purpose to your work is often the key in doing do.

Start off simple

Whether you’re a tech savvy individual or not, it’s natural to be daunted by new techniques implemented by your work force or your company. Many of us have experienced being introduced to a new role and having to familiarise yourself with the way in which your team works, and the software they use, only for it to be scrapped in an attempt to streamline different processes. So there you are, back at square one, fumbling around your computer screen, googling top tips in order to facilitate your learning. On top of your weekly deadlines and demands, it’s often not what you need. Big Data is similar. It’s on the top of the to-do list in terms of implementation on many business schedules but the way in which to tackle it is with care, research and having your goals at the forefront of your implementation. Start off small on those campaigns and topics you’re familiar with, so you’ve got an inkling of what’s going on. Once that’s mastered you can start playing around with the unknown to discover results you may not have anticipated and make it work for you.

Know its power

For anyone who loves a good read on Twitter, or targets insights on LinkedIn is probably familiar with the powers that Big Data hold. Many though are exhibited through big companies who have a large budget and the resources to do so. Just because they have a big budget doesn’t mean to say it’s being used wisely, and just because you may have a smaller budget shouldn’t deter you from getting involved. To up the anti and acquire a certain level of mastery, you’ve got to keep it personal. Within the act of knowing Big Data’s power there’s also a level of reality and expectation. Be aware that good things really do take time, so having a consideration that the benefits of Big Data aren’t slapping you in the face straight away, as is often portrayed in the media, is a good thought to have.

There’s a reason that the David and Goliaths of the scene are using it but don’t forget to monitor its progress, otherwise you’ll be left with a plethora of un-met goals and wasted investment.

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