Big Data Blending Solution
January 20, 2016
I would have used Palantir or maybe our own tools. But an outfit named National Instruments found a different way to perform data blending. “How This Instrument Firm Tackled Big Data Blending” provides a case study and a rah rah for Alteryx. Here’s the paragraph I highlighted:
The software it [National Instruments] selected, from Alteryx, takes a somewhat unique approach in that it provides a visual representation of the data transformation process. Users can acquire, transform, and blend multiple data sources essentially by dragging and dropping icons on a screen. This GUI approach is beneficial to NI employees who aren’t proficient at manipulating data using something like SQL.
The graphical approach has been part of a number of tools. There are also some systems which just figure out where to put what.
The issue for me is, “What happens to rich media like imagery and unstructured information like email?”
There are systems which handle these types of content.
Another challenge is the dependence on structured relational data tables. Certain types of operations are difficult in this environment.
The write up is interesting, but it reveals that a narrow view of available tools may produce a partial solution.
Stephen E Arnold, January 20, 2016
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