What is Hadoop?
Hadoops is open source software that enables reliable, scalable, distributed computing. It allows for the distributed processing of large data sets across clusters of computers. Cassandra, HBASE and PIG are three of the more prominent Hadoop projects that have gained attention in the past few years.
Why is it useful?
Hadoop lends itself well to quick implementations that can scale on big data through rapid iterating.
Unlike traditional installs, the scope of the relational data structure does not need to be known in advance. You can begin storing data early and have the ability to iterate on it quickly. The result is more useful information, sooner, and the ability to adjust and refine which in turn generates value. Hadoop’s flexibility has made it popular with both startups and data scientists alike.
Most business have made slow progress in extracting value from Big Data. Some companies attempt to use traditional data management practices on big data, only to learn that the old rules no longer apply. There is still much to learn, but for those that combine a long view with advanced data management practices and cultural change, there is an opportunity to put some distance between them and the competition.
How can Wink help me?
We use Hadoop to solve very specific problems ourselves. We set it up, get it working, and then start iterating with you. We solve certain classes of big data problems using Hadoop faster than traditional Business Intelligence methodologies. Potential clients approach us because they need a proof of concept for their specific problem, or, because they have a very important business decision and this is the fastest route to relevant information.