Data profiling is the method where unstructured user data existing in numerous sources can be proficiently scanned, sorted, and classified. This helps the actions that are necessary for the data to be performed. This aides archive and backup processes due to providing the means to managing and retaining data information. Data profiling compiles this information about data continuously and helps data centers understand what the data is its importance, and its future uses. Performing data profiling can reduce storage costs and strengthen data intelligence. With continuously updated information about offline and online data, companies can make decisions about the data they are storing and most importantly what to do with it.
By implementing storage profiling, organizations can lessen storage costs by reducing redundant copies and outdated data. Since redundant and outdated data can take up a very high percentage of data, storage profiling has tremendous value to any organization. Data profiling also enhances data requests by creating visible and easily retrievable data; this occurs somewhat like how a Google search works. Data profiling additionally increases the performance of numerous other processes in data centers such as strengthening business intelligence. Predictive modeling will enable an organization to mine data and reveal patterns in past data. For example, when many fathers purchase diapers, they often pick up beer as well. This data will be stored and can be used to increase sales of both items by placing beer and diapers closer together in grocery stores.
Data profiling also enhances security by increasing fraud detection and advancing the complexity of credit reports. Merely storing data and archive process is even easier and more efficient. Needing to store less data means a reduction in the number of storage devices, saving money on initial hardware costs as well as the upkeep of the hardware, such as power and cooling. Data profiling works great for medium to large business who store a large amount of data that needs to be quickly retrieved. Data that is stored for long periods of time and then set to delete after a certain amount of time has passed would benefit significantly from data profiling. Smaller businesses who do not deal with a large amount of data might deem data profiling unnecessary. Overall, data profiling offers many benefits that help a company become more productive, efficient, and secure.
References:
Crump, George. (2014). Can Data Profiling Solve the Data Epidemic? Retrieved from https://storageswiss.com/2014/02/24/can-data-profiling-solve-the-data-epidemic/.
Securing The Universe 