What Is Big Data?
Big data is more than just "a lot of data." It represents a paradigm shift in how we collect, store, process, and analyze information in an era where data is generated at unprecedented scales. At its core, big data refers to datasets so vast, varied, or fast-moving that traditional tools and methods struggle to handle them. The term has become synonymous with the ability to harness massive volumes of information to uncover patterns, drive decisions, and transform industries. Big data is often characterized by the "3 Vs"—Volume (the sheer amount of data), Velocity (the speed at which data is generated and processed), and Variety (the diverse types of data, from structured numbers to unstructured text or images). Later chapters will expand this to include Veracity (uncertainty in data) and Value (deriving meaningful insights), but these three form the foundation. For example, a single day on social media platforms like X can generate billions of posts, likes, and sh...