What is a Data Platform?

As the sheer volume of recorded human data continues to explode from 4.4 zettabytes in 2013 to 44 zettabytes in 2020, now more than ever, companies are utilizing data platforms to synthesize this overwhelming deluge of information. Whether it’s Amazon congregating user data to predict market conditions, or Oracle pinpointing the weak links in a supply chain, data platforms are how today’s market leaders stay competitive.

Data platforms are software technologies that allow businesses to collect, analyze, and present data. These invaluable tools can be used for a variety of uses, including congregating data across various divisions within a company, sharing metadata with other users, or running recommendation engines.

Different kinds of data platforms

Data platforms fall within specific categorizations, though most incorporate multiple elements. The different kinds of platforms are:

• Enterprise data platforms are central data repositories that consolidate information across all facets of an organization, including customer service and marketing. This is the foundation of all operational and enhanced data functions.
• Modern data platforms provide an adaptable architecture for future data analytics. This avoids the common pitfalls of antiquated data lakes by quickly adopting new technologies and optimizing hardware usage.
• Cloud data platforms are built entirely from cloud computing and data stores. This allows for easier data access and scalability.
• Data analytics platforms perform analyses across an organization’s various data systems. These turn any and all data collected into actionable business insights.
• Consumer data platforms create unified consumer databases. These consolidate user data into easily accessible user profiles that can be shared with other systems within an organization.

Benefits of Data Platforms

Data platforms are necessary tools for competitive companies to stay organized, informed, and protected. Some benefits include:

• Security: Data platforms give organizations control over what data is accessible and who has access to them.
• Centralization: A good data platform supports all types of sources, such as MySQL, Cassandra, or monteDB.
• Governance: Data platforms streamline adherence to ever-changing regulatory requirements, thus reducing operational costs and remaining compliant with industry standards.
• Delivery: Data platforms that allow and enable key functions, such as scheduling and proactive alerts are paramount.
• Availability: Data platforms should be easily accessible to its user, including high-end point users like data analysts and scientists.

Get real-time data analytics with Scuba

Though there are many different kinds of data platforms, Scuba’s continuous intelligence platform offers unmatched security, data centralization, governance accessibility, delivery, and availability. Scuba offers elevated data management and analytics in real-time and is designed to be accessible to users across your organization. 

Request a demo or reach out to a Scuba expert today.