Unlike classic big-data applications, data streams are real-time flows of digital information thrown off by sensors or other events. Companies can gain value and competitive advantage by exploiting real-time data that is generated either deliberately or as a byproduct of other activities, according to the research paper by academics Gabriele Piccoli and Federico Pigni.

The first step is to determine the feasibility of a data stream service, which depends on how “streamable” the data is, and how complete the data set is, the researchers say. The second step is assessing the potential of the data stream to lead to actual business value. The report presents a Value Potential Matrix to aid that analysis.

Is your company ready to tackle this sort of business venture?

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