Hi Learner,

Big data refers to enormous, diverse sets of information that grow at ever-increasing rates. It combines all the structured, semi-structured, and unstructured data collected from multiple sources over a period time.

Have you discovered your consumer shopping habits? What about the real-time data monitoring of the traffic that comes to your website? Do you maintain a record of your customer databases, business documents, emails IDs? Everything is big data! Businesses around the world are relying on big data to help them identify challenges, capitalise on opportunities, and make effective business decisions.

According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the big data field is expected to grow 27.9% by 2026, therefore creating a demand for big data jobs. But there is a massive shortage of skilled big data professionals! Even though the jobs in the field are seeing growth, there is a scarcity of professionals with the right skills.

From data scientists and engineers, to business analysts and database managers, there are options galore if you are looking to build a career in big data. But before you enter the workforce, or even begin with your job search, you will want to spend time developing your portfolio of data skills that are crucial for a big data career. To help you get into the big data "rhythm", we have listed the most important skills that will give you a winning start. Explore our free courses, hone your data skills, and prepare yourself to begin your awesome data career.