Big data is collected through various methods and from numerous sources to gain valuable insights. Two widely used methods mentioned include data mining and web scraping.
Key Methods of Big Data Collection
Collecting big data involves systematically gathering information from digital and physical environments. This process is crucial for organizations seeking to analyze trends, understand customer behavior, and make data-driven decisions.
Data Mining
Data mining is a comprehensive process that begins with data collection. Organizations gather data from various sources, including databases, data warehouses, and even social media platforms. This initial step lays the foundation for subsequent analysis and pattern discovery within the massive datasets.
Web Scraping
Another prevalent method is web scraping. This technique involves using automated tools or bots to extract large volumes of information directly from websites. It's often used to collect data like product prices, customer reviews, news articles, and more, from the vastness of the internet.
Where Does Big Data Come From?
Big data originates from an ever-increasing number of sources, both traditional and modern. Some common origins include:
- Business Systems: Transactional data from CRM (Customer Relationship Management) and ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems.
- Web & Mobile: Website visits, clicks, app usage, online transactions, and user interactions.
- Social Media: Posts, likes, shares, tweets, and demographic information from platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. (As mentioned in the reference).
- Sensors & IoT: Data from connected devices, smart meters, industrial sensors, and wearables.
- Public Records: Government data, weather patterns, traffic information, and census data.
- Databases & Data Warehouses: Existing structured data repositories (As mentioned in the reference).
By employing methods like data mining and web scraping, organizations can effectively collect data from these diverse sources, building the massive datasets characteristic of big data.
