Data has always existed. Everything that happens creates data — from the sun shining to each keystroke on an individual’s computer.
However, that data has not always been captured and stored. Human symbols have existed for tens of thousands of years, but the earliest coherent text is from around 2,600 BC.
From then until quite recently, writing was the main form of capturing and storing data. From the early cuneiform tablets, to the library of Alexandria, through to the invention of the printing press in the 1,400’s and until quite recently, the only method of storing data was on physical artefacts. Even in the early days of computing, there was no electronic storage — rather physical punch cards were used to store the information that allowed computers to operate.
Change began with the definition of the first relational database in 1970 by English computer scientist Edgar Codd. Since this invention, there has been an explosion of data that is now captured and stored. It is estimated that there are 2.5 quintillion bytes of data created each day, much of which is stored electronically. Often this data is duplicated, replicated, and stored multiple times. The proliferation of data in the last 50 years is truly astonishing.
This growth trend is expected to continue and speed up as the ‘Internet-of-Things’ becomes mainstream, creating data around our everyday activities and appliances. The question is how do we take advantage of all of this data? How do we use it for both the greater general good and business growth?
Alqami was formed to support clients no matter where they are on their data maturity journey. Whether the primary aim is to maintain relevance and competitive advantage through the intelligent use and application of data, or to build incremental revenue streams and assets through the valuation and monetisation of data, the service integration model that is supported by Alqami’s analysis and management expertise ensures an efficient path is built to harness the power and impact data can have on any business.
