Can Big Data Help Solve Big Problems?
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Can Big Data Help Solve Big Problems?

Can Big Data Help Solve Big Problems?

Google Flu Trends (GFT) is a poster child for big data gone wrong. Under this program, Google tracked flu-related searches, as the company expected those with the flu to search how to treat it. However, in 2013, Google miscalculated the outbreak of flu season. Why? Most notably, flu symptoms aren’t unique to the flu, and sometimes a Google search is simply just a curious search. As Google learned, a lot of data doesn’t necessarily mean it’s quality data.

Creating and managing valuable big data is an ongoing challenge not only for giant tech companies like Google but also for the Government. Government Agencies produce data every day and, soon, new appointees are likely to request information regarding programs and costs related to new policies. With a business-minded approach, the new Administration may choose to analyze this information to cut down on operation costs and enhance knowledge sharing.

We recommend the new Administration establish an analytics team to manage and process official information requests to reduce costs and assist with common national issues like healthcare and unemployment. The team would make data that isn’t sensitive available to the public. The Government can use the data to produce metrics to make more informed decisions about operations, policies, and management while simultaneously improving transparency with the public.

For example, the new Administration can implement a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) STAT program (DHSstat) – similar to the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) STAT program (FEMAstat)) – responsible for managing performance and collecting data and outcomes with great visibility. The program would use data to identify gaps, track performance, and recognize opportunities to support DHS mission and performance.

Big data output has the opportunity to impact everything from small, daily decisions to larger, nationwide issues. By implementing an analytics team and STAT programs, the new Administration can use a more data-centric approach to handle potential economic and security issues while improving transparency with the American public.

About Arc Aspicio

Arc Aspicio is a management, strategy, and technology consulting firm that takes a mission-oriented approach to complex client challenges. As a rapidly growing company, Arc Aspicio has a bold strategy for 2016-2018 that drives growth through new capabilities in strategy, design, human capital, data analytics, information sharing, cybersecurity, and strategic communications. The company is known for a strong, collaborative culture that values gratitude – for its clients and its great team. And, #welovedogs! Follow us on Twitter @arcaspicio or learn more at www.arcaspicio.com.

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Arc Aspicio enhances the future of our nation by creating bold ideas and bringing them to life. A consulting and solutions company, Arc Aspicio solves problems by applying our integrated capabilities in strategy, design, data, human capital, behavioral science, and technology. The company passionately pursues our vision to be the hub of creativity where people take action to change the world. To do this, employees collaborate with clients and partners to create solutions using a human-centered approach. Innovation is not possible without action. The company focuses on strategy first, then takes a hands-on approach implementing ideas to achieve results. Join Arc Aspicio and our Strategy Innovation Lab (SILab) by creating and sharing ideas to inspire people to change the world. Follow us on Twitter @ArcAspicio @SILabDC and, #welovedogs!

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