Creative Commons

This dissertation was written as part of the MSc in Management at the International Hellenic University and explores how big data contributes to the digital transformation of organizations. Most organizations rely on big data for improving the reliability, speed, quality and efficiency of their business processes. Big data is known for collecting, storing and maintaining huge volumes of information, which contributes to the competitive advantage of companies. Lack of holistic analysis on the use of big data for digital transformation is the primary research gap addressed from existing literature studies, which is resolved by examining the strategic advantages, opportunities and challenges of big data as businesses digitally transform their infrastructure. Through systematic literature review and multiple case study approach involving Amazon, Facebook, Google and Wells Fargo, this research contributes to a greater understanding of the overall concept of big data. The findings of this study demonstrate how firms implement collaborative strategies for leveraging the opportunities offered by big data analytics, especially for decision making, information synthesis, profitability and market expansion among others. Furthermore, this study also recommends the use of long-term planning strategies and business intelligence practices for ensuring data privacy. Keywords: big data, digital transformation, importance of big data, impact of big data