Businesses everywhere are on a constant hunt to find ways which will put them ahead of their competition. Processing and analyzing data quickly and in a standardized format is a big part of this necessary strategy. Data processing, which may include the processing of images, claims, checks or documents, enables companies to make faster and more informed decisions. Apache Spark is one tool which has changed the face of data processing.
Organizations which rely upon speed, ease of use and the latest technology are utilizing Spark to perform batch processing, live streaming, interactive queries and machine learning – making it one the most exciting platforms for growth and development.
How Data is Processed
Data is first collected in one place – and the quality of the data is important to the rest of the process. A good collection of data ensures that the information is accurate, so that the eventual findings are on target. Once collected, raw data is converted into a dataset which standardizes the information.
Input is the next stage of processing, where data is coded or converted to be easily read by machines rather than humans. Once all the data is input into the system, and is deemed to be accurate, it enters a stage of manipulations and interpretations, as designated by preset instructions. Modern software programs can process and interpret huge amounts of data in a short period of time.
Once the data is interpreted, it is sent back in a user-friendly format, such as a report, or on an audio or video monitor. The accuracy of all the steps up to this point is critical, as the insight communicate back to the user will be utilized to make decisions which shape the trajectory of the company.
The vast amount of raw data, processed data, reports and actions need to be stored. The magnitude of this task has leant to the rapid acceptance of cloud computing and cloud-based solutions.
What does Apache Spark Offer?
Now that you understand how data is processed, you may wonder why Apache Spark is considered one of the innovative tools to handle the process.
- Apache Spark allows for automatic memory tuning capabilities, allowing for fine tuning and creating an easy and efficient framework.
- Spark processes data with remarkable speed, which is a strategic advantage for many companies.
- Spark supports a lot of languages, and permits users to
write applications in Python, Scala, and Java. This provides convenience for developers to run their applications without having to learn a new language. - Spark’s analytics are sophisticated. They support supports for SQL queries, streaming data and complex analytics such as machine learning and graph algorithms.
- Spark allows real-time streaming, handling and processing stored data while it manipulates the data in real-time.
- Spark’s reach is expanding since its inception in 2009, and more than 250 developers around the globe have contributed to its development.
Wait, what did we just say? At Alliance IT, we understand that while you understand the importance of data collection and analysis, the ins and outs of specific software solutions may be a bit over a business owners head.
Therefore if you are looking into a more competitive or intuitive way to collect, manipulate and exploit your data, we recommend you give us a call. Our managed services team offers a deep bench of experience, and we can help you to choose the software, hardware, and services which will be most effective for your organization. If you are a Sarasota area small business, we invite you to call Alliance IT today for a consultation.
