Confluence of Big Data and Internet of Things—relationship, synergization, and convergence

As Big Data and Internet of Things (IoT) keep evolving and play an increasingly important role in the digitization, it is crucial to crystalize how these two are related to each other. This article investigates the correlation between Big Data and IoT systematically and introduces a comprehensive relationship model to synergize IoT and Big Data. The overarching model is broken down into pillars to manage the complexity: independent, interconnecting, interacting, and intertwined (i4). The independent pillar is concerned with stand-alone operations and distinct functionalities, composed of four components: difference, implementation, similarity, and capability (DISC). The interconnecting pillar deals with the structural connections with four units: composition, realization, atomicity, and multiplicity (CRAM). The interacting pillar covers four behavioral styles with four modules: control, association, range, and dependency (CARD). Lastly, the intertwined pillar is in regard to the intermesh of working together cohesively, consisting of four parts: touchpoints, integration, mapping, and enablement (TIME). We delve into each individual element in greater detail, followed by the guidelines and best practices on how to effectively apply the i4 model in real-life initiatives.