Big Data - Small Business : Part II

Last week we discussed what Big Data means to your small business or nonprofit. It is now commonly touted that "90% of all the data in the world has been created in the last two years." Even if you feel you are a tiny star in the universe of big data, you would probably agree that your own company's data inputs are growing. But if your information is segmented in different little orbits, you are not getting the benefits you should from your data.  

Salesforce.com is a standard-bearer in the big data movement.  Cloudy and the consultants at Redpath have helped many businesses consolidate their big data, simplify their business, and automate their business processes using salesforce.com.  Here is what we have learned along the way:

Challenges: What are the obstacles you may face as you integrate all your data inputs into salesforce.com?

1) User Adoption

• Big data success depends on your users to input the information.  (Read more about user adoption strategy here and here.)
• Users and departments who have previously been more independent may resent what feels like additional oversight of their work.

Bottom line: It is critical that users understand WHY changes are being made, and that they are given incentive and opportunity to buy in to the process.

2) Volume

Bottom line: How will you process and understand the huge quantities of data you will now have access to?

3) Assumptions

• Are you ready to see the truth if the data shows you that your assumptions about your business are not correct?

Bottom line: Get ready for paradigm shift.

Next time, Cloudy has some important tips for you to harness Big Data for your business.

If you would like to talk to a Redpath consultant, Click Here.