Small Data and Big Data: how these concepts apply to the logistics process

Modified on: 11/18/2020
It's very likely that you've already heard of Big Data in logistics.
The intelligent use of data to understand consumer behavior is a very powerful tool. It's no wonder it's gained significant traction in companies in recent years. 
 
However, another technique has a significant presence in the e-commerce market: Small Data, a smaller-scale data analysis methodology. 
 
In the following article, you will understand the difference between these two concepts and show the importance of IT in logistics processes
Happy reading! 
 
What is Big Data and how can it be applied to logistics?
We define Big Data as the storage and processing of a significant amount of data. This information, in turn, can be collected from a company's internal and external processes. For example, order issuance, customer profiles, delivery times, among others.
 
The purpose of Big Data in logistics is to offer valuable insights that will aid decision-making. This allows managers to develop more strategic plans that will optimize the supply chain.  
 
What about Small Data? 
The name is pretty intuitive: Small Data focuses on the quality of data details. In other words, it looks at the qualitative rather than the quantitative. This evolution of Information Technology applied to logistics allows companies to get to know their consumers in depth. 
 
After all, Small Data identifies customer patterns and characteristics during their interactions with the brand. This allows teams to create personalized plans and ensure each customer is treated uniquely. 
 
This increases the chances of closing deals because your team has the information they need to offer products and services that are exactly what consumers want. 
 
What is the difference between Small and Big Data?
Despite having different origins, we can say that Small and Big Data in logistics are correlated and have the same objective. In other words, to provide a basis for strategic actions capable of improving the results obtained.
 
That is why it is so necessary to reinforce the importance of IT in logistics processesAnalyzing this information helps optimize the user experience, increase consumer and company perception, and enable the sales team to close more deals. 
 
Therefore, we understand that analyzing data is essential to understanding your company's main challenges. In today's competitive landscape, the Internet of Things becomes more than just an ally. Connecting data, comparing processes, and making strategic decisions is crucial to maintaining your company's competitive edge. 
 
Understand the importance of IT in logistics processes is very important to keep your company up to date. Now that you know what Small Data is and how this concept differs from Big Data in logistics, it's time to put your knowledge into practice. Good luck!

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