# Big data: what it is and how it works · Zorraquino
> Big data describes data sets and flows whose scale, variety or velocity requires specific capabilities to manage and analyse them.
URL: https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary/digital-marketing/big-data.html

# Big data

Big data describes data sets and flows whose scale, variety or velocity requires specific capabilities to manage and analyse them

What it means, how it is used and where it comes up, with its related concepts.

[The whole glossary](https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary)

## What it is and how it works

Its usefulness depends on the question and on data quality, not just on volume. It can support decisions and predictive models. More information also brings costs and risks that require appropriate governance, selection and controls.

Topics

[Technology and data](https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary/category/tecnologia-y-datos)

## Related concepts

- [Data lake](https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary/digital-marketing/data-lake.html)
- [Data quality](https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary/data-quality)
- [Data governance](https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary/data-governance)