As you've seen in our previous blog post, we discussed the difference between 'artificial intelligence' and 'machine learning.' Yet, another buzz word we often hear is 'Big Data.' So, what is the difference between 'artificial intelligence' and 'Big Data,' how are they interconnected, and are they even comparable? Let's find out. First...

As you've seen in our previous blog post, we discussed the difference between 'artificial intelligence' and 'machine learning.' Yet, another buzz word we often hear is 'Big Data.' So, what is the difference between 'artificial intelligence' and 'Big Data,' how are they interconnected, and are they even comparable? Let's find out.

First, are they different? If so, how?

For starters, Big Data refers to the raw data that is inputted and integrated to produce something of use, while AI is that output—the result of the processed data. As mentioned in our previous blog post, AI allows machines to react to the data that is inputted, similar to the way humans react. Big Data, on the other hand, just looks for results, rather than acts on them. It is concerned with gaining insight, while AI is concerned with decision making. In this way, the two are very different.

Now, how are they similar?

If we think about it, AI requires data in order to build up its intelligence, so this is where Big Data comes in. Big Data is sort of like the raw material, offering massive amounts of data, and must be sorted before it can be turned into something useful. Once it is organized, then the sorted data is used in AI and machine learning to train the learning algorithms.

Big Data provides the data that AI needs to thrive. AI, on the other hand, does not stop learning. New data is constantly needed to make adequate decisions and to really hone its process. The more data the AI has to work with, the more accurate the results will be.Of course, AI cannot deduce as humans can, which is why it requires these massive amounts of data to teach the AI how to come to certain conclusions through trial and error.

What's the bottom line?

All in all, AI and Big Data are huge buzzwords today because we have everything we need to make them thrive—huge data sets, widely available internet, fast processes, et cetera. If there is any main take away from the difference between the two processes, it is that there is no AI without Big Data.

If you have any further questions or concerns about artificial intelligence or Big Data, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.