This document provides an overview of big data including:
- Types of data like structured and unstructured data
- Characteristics of big data and how it has evolved with more unstructured data sources
- Sectors that benefit from big data including government, banking, telecommunications, marketing, and health and life sciences
- Advantages such as understanding customers, optimizing business processes, and improving research, healthcare, and security
- Challenges including privacy, data access, analytical challenges, and human resource needs
- The conclusion states big data generates productivity and opportunities but challenges must be addressed through talent and analytics