By Eugene Hamrick, Director—Enterprise Analytics and Innovation
and
Adam Elrod, Data Strategy and Innovation Architect
Data scientists like to joke that “big data” at utilities is defined as anything with more than 1.4 million rows.
Why? Because that’s how many rows fit into Excel.
The point is that “big data” is relative to your audience.
For electric cooperatives, the challenge of utilizing big data effectively is two-fold: gaining access to comprehensive data and converting that data into actionable insights. These issues are not just technological but also strategic, requiring a nuanced understanding of both data science and business operations.
The journey often begins with securing access to relevant data. This step is typically challenging, constrained by existing technical and infrastructural limitations. After overcoming these initial barriers, the focus can shift to interpreting and applying the data in a strategic way.
For example, a prevalent issue is the limited accessibility of metering data. Addressing this means implementing systems, software, and tools that allow for seamless access and analysis of data, enabling it to be used in a variety of practical and strategic contexts, a pipeline and dashboard – if you will.
The process, while complex due to the sheer volume and intricacies of the data involved, is essential for informed decision making. It demands a structured approach, combining technological solutions with strategic business acumen. It’s a progression, from basic access to insightful analysis.
The effective use of big data is not only about managing large volumes of information. It's about transforming that data into a strategic asset that can drive growth, operational efficiency, and informed decision-making.
By embracing the right strategies and tools, electric cooperatives can turn the challenges of big data into opportunities for innovation and competitive advantage – essential pillars for staying ahead of a rapidly evolving utility landscape.
BrilliT, is leading the way in utility analytics and data optimization through custom pipelines, dashboarding, and visualization. We specialize in getting actionable data in the hands of those that need it, creating more efficient processes and workflows. Your data is there, it’s time to think out of the box on how you can use it to better your co-op today and for the future. Let BrilliT help you transform Excel spreadsheets and into custom tools to help you get there.
BrilliT is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rappahannock Electric Cooperative and was created to help co-ops tackle the cybersecurity and IT challenges of today's constantly evolving digital world.
About the Authors
With over 10 years in the cooperative industry, Eugene Hamrick brings years of data science, business intelligence, and member insights experience to BrilliT. How knowledge and expertise help promote data enhanced decision-making and analytic solutions, ensuring cooperatives receive maximum benefits from the use of data.
Adam Elrod is BrilliT's Data Strategy & Analytics Architect. He is an expert in turning data into stories and actionable items. He has worked for electric cooperatives for over seven years, applying his talents in public relations, member engagement, and data analytics to BrilliT.
The BrilliT team is here to help, and we look forward to serving as your data analytics, cybersecurity, and IT experts. Reach out to us with questions.
