While some may consider big data to still be in its buzzword phase, other groups have seen the light when it comes to leveraging large sums of information and analyzing it for its patterns and insights. A number of groups across different industries have begun using big data as part of their processes, but some of these projects have proven to be more beneficial than others.
When it comes to government organizations and their use of big data, there are certain ways these groups can position these initiatives to get the most benefit from them. Below are a few strategies to help local, state and federal agencies take advantage of big data:
Enhance security and reduce threats
FCW contributor Bill Cull noted that big data is proving to be a transforming force for government, especially when leveraged to improve security and mitigate the chances of falling victim to current threats. This is particularly true when it comes to detecting fraudulent activities. Although Cull noted that federal institutions have a long way to go in these respects, using big data could assist in fraud prevention.
“Using big data analytics, security experts can track patterns and discover unknown threats in real time, incident response teams can monitor known threats and other suspicious behavior, and law enforcement agents can correlate historical data to help prevent future fraud cases,” Cull wrote.
Improve decision making
Decision-making is perhaps one of the most important things government agencies do, as their choices have an impact on the entire public. Therefore, state and federal groups need as much information on hand to foster decisions that will benefit everyone, and big data can considerably help in these regards. StateTech noted that the trends and insights big data can illuminate has the ability to take the guesswork out of decision-making, while also helping to ensure that any and all concerns are addressed.
Be more transparent with the public
StateTech also noted that big data can be used to help government organizations be more transparent with the public and improve citizens’ understanding of federal processes. Government groups can share with the public what data they are collecting, and illustrate how it improves services and impacts them.
“Processing and sharing big data also allows agencies to offer information as a service, whether its online tax records, census information, weather data or more,” StateTech noted.
With all the benefits that big data can bring, it’s no wonder why state, local and federal organizations have begun to harness it as a powerful tool not only in decision-making, but as a means to enhance security and foster a better relationship with the public.