Explore the glossary for data technology terms

ACID (Atomicity, Consistency, Isolation, Durability) ensures data integrity in database transactions. It guarantees that transactions are processed reliably, maintaining data correctness and preventing corruption. By enforcing these properties, relational databases offer robust systems for managing data, even under high loads. Actian supports ACID transactions to enhance reliability across both transactional and analytical workloads.

AI Vector Generators use mathematical algorithms to convert objects like text, images, or speech into numerical vectors that represent their attributes. These vectors enable more accurate and faster object searches based on similarity. The technology simplifies database query writing and processing, enhancing user experience in both design and business intelligence applications.

Big data refers to extremely large and complex datasets that traditional data processing tools cannot manage. With its vast volume, velocity, and variety, big data offers businesses powerful insights into consumer behavior, trends, and performance. By harnessing big data, organizations can improve decision-making, drive innovation, and gain a competitive edge.

Business intelligence (BI) refers to technologies and practices that collect, analyze, and visualize business data to support better decision-making. BI tools help organizations turn raw data into actionable insights, offering improved reporting, performance tracking, and strategic planning. By leveraging BI, businesses can optimize operations, identify trends, and make informed, data-driven decisions.

A Customer Data Platform (CDP) centralizes and unifies customer data from various sources, providing businesses with a single, comprehensive view of each customer. This enables organizations to improve personalization, optimize marketing efforts, and enhance customer engagement. A CDP plays a key role in delivering actionable insights and driving data-driven decision-making across businesses.

Cloud analytics refers to the use of cloud-based platforms to analyze large datasets in real time, enabling businesses to derive actionable insights. By leveraging scalable and flexible solutions, cloud analytics helps organizations make informed decisions faster. It improves data processing efficiency and empowers companies to harness business intelligence from big data for strategic advantage.

Cloud computing refers to the delivery of computing services such as storage, processing, and networking over the internet, providing businesses with scalable and flexible solutions. It eliminates the need for physical infrastructure, reduces costs, and supports collaboration. Cloud computing enables on-demand access to resources, empowering organizations to improve efficiency, innovation, and agility.

Cloud elasticity refers to the ability of a cloud system to dynamically scale computing resources up or down to meet fluctuating workload demands. This capability ensures optimal performance, cost-efficiency, and resource allocation. Elasticity is a critical feature of modern cloud computing, allowing businesses to adapt seamlessly to changes in demand without over-provisioning.

Cloud storage is an online solution for storing data on remote servers, making it accessible via the internet. It offers scalability, flexibility, and security, allowing businesses and individuals to store and manage large amounts of data without the need for physical hardware. Cloud storage enables easy sharing, access, and backup of critical information.

Cluster analysis is a technique used to group similar data points into clusters based on shared characteristics. This method helps identify patterns and trends in datasets, enabling businesses to make data-driven decisions. By uncovering hidden relationships, cluster analysis supports improved customer segmentation, market analysis, and operational strategies for better business outcomes.

Comparative analysis is a method of evaluating different data sets to highlight similarities and differences. It’s widely used for market research, financial assessments, and competitive analysis. This process helps businesses understand their standing, identify trends, and make informed decisions by comparing key metrics across datasets.

Compute cloud refers to cloud-based services that provide scalable and on-demand computing resources for businesses. These resources enable organizations to run applications, process data, and manage workloads efficiently without investing in physical infrastructure. Compute cloud solutions offer flexibility, cost savings, and scalability, making them essential for modern business operations and digital transformation.