This document provides an overview of big data by exploring its definition, origins, characteristics and applications. It defines big data as large data sets that cannot be processed by traditional software tools due to size and complexity. The creator of big data is identified as Doug Laney who in 2001 defined the 3Vs of big data - volume, velocity and variety. A variety of sectors are discussed where big data is used including social media, science, retail and government. The document concludes by stating we are in the age of big data due to new capabilities to analyze large data sets quickly and cost effectively.