A Guide for selecting big data analytics tools in an organisation

Abstract

Selection of appropriate big data analytics (BDA) tools (software) for business purposes is increasingly challenging, which sometimes lead to incompatibility with existing technologies. This becomes prohibitive in attempts to execute some functions or activities in an environment. The objective of this study was to propose a model, which can be used to guide the selection of BDA in an organization. The interpretivist approach was employed. Qualitative data was collected and analyzed using the hermeneutics approach. The analysis focused on examining and gaining better understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the most common BDA tools. The technical and non-technical factors that influence the selection of BDA were identified. Based on which a solution is proposed in the form of a model. The model is intended to guide selection of most appropriate BDA tools in an organization. The model is intended to increase BDA usefulness towards improving organization’s competitiveness.