The logical differentiation between small data and big data

Abstract

Big data is defined by its characteristics known as the 4Vs: volume, velocity, veracity and variety (Sun, Strang & Li 2018;Osman 2019). According to Barham (2017), volume refers to size, which entails the scale of data. Velocity is the speed at which data travels, including how the data or set of data is streamed and flows in exchanges (Iyamu 2018). Veracity is the complexity and uncertainty of data (Lam et al. 2017). Variety refers to the different forms of data (Barham 2017). Background:The distinction between small data and big data is increasingly muted and has caused challenges and confusion in many quarters. Objective:The objective of the study is to gain a deeper understanding of the confounded confusion that exists between small data and big data. Firstly, to develop a taxonomy that distinguishes between small data and big data. Secondly, it seeks to extract the value from the concepts, which can be of fundamental importance to an organisation.Methods: This study follows the interpretive approach and employs qualitative methods, based on which 57 related materials were gathered, covering big data and small data, and analysed. Results:The study reveals the factors that differentiate the concepts, which are of a technical front, business logic and data processing. Conclusion:This study addresses the challenges which are increasingly of prohibitive ramifications for both academic and business domains. By removing the confusion, the classifications of small data and big data including associated attributes will be better understood. This increases their business use towards enhancement and competitive advantage. Contribution:The article distinguishes between small data and big data, which has been missing, from both academic and business perspectives, since the emergence of the latter. The differentiation between small data and big data provides a guide to organisations in developing strategic frameworks and operational plans.