In the age of rapid digital transformation, data has emerged as one of the most valuable assets for any organization. Dato’ Seri Ivan Teh, Managing Director of Fusionex, delivered a compelling presentation at the SCDS 2016 conference, on how businesses and institutions can truly “make the most of Big Data.” His insights are both a guide and a challenge: a guide because they map what effective data use looks like, and a challenge because real power comes only when organizations commit to change at multiple levels.

Why Big Data Matters

https://fskm.uitm.edu.my/scds2016/abstractivanteh.html At its core, Big Data means more than just accumulating vast volumes of information. According to Dato’ Seri Ivan Teh, its real value lies in transforming raw data — whether from internal systems, external sensors, customer interactions, or social media — into meaningful intelligence that drives real outcomes. Whether it be shaping strategy, improving operations, or innovating new services, the analytical insights derived from Big Data can offer competitive advantage, greater operational efficiency, and adaptability to change.

One of the key advantages he highlights is real‑time analytics. Rather than waiting for periodic reports, organizations can monitor what is happening as it happens: anomalies, customer behavior shifts, supply chain delays, or market changes. This immediacy lets decision‑makers respond faster, mitigate risk earlier, and capture opportunities more effectively.

Customization and Relevance

One of the most important messages from his talk is that Big Data strategies need to be tailored. No two industries, or even two organizations, will use the same data sources, face the same challenges, or have the same goals. Dato’ Seri Ivan Teh emphasizes understanding the context: which data are available, which are relevant, what quality they have, and how they integrate.

For example, a healthcare provider may be dealing with sensor data, patient records, imaging, and regulatory constraints. A retailer might focus on customer transactions, inventory flows, online browsing, and supply chain logistics. For each case, there must be clarity about which data streams matter, which analytical models fit best, and how insights should be delivered to stakeholders.

The Role of Emerging Technologies

Emerging technologies play a central role in making Big Data actionable and accurate. Dato’ Seri Ivan Teh speaks about how Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, and IoT (Internet of Things) are no longer futuristic ideas but integral parts of modern analytics. These technologies enable pattern detection, predictive analysis, anomaly detection, and automation in ways that traditional methods cannot match.

He argues that integrating these technologies allows organizations not just to understand what has happened, but to anticipate what might happen. Being predictive rather than reactive can lead to improvements in customer satisfaction, risk management, cost savings, and innovation.

Leadership, Culture, and Capability

Implementing Big Data successfully is not only a technical challenge; it is a human and organizational one. Dato’ Seri Ivan Teh underlines the need for strong leadership, a culture supportive of data‑driven decision making, and investment in capability – including training, the right tools, and infrastructure.

Leaders must champion data initiatives, break down silos so that data flows freely across departments, and ensure decisions are informed by evidence. Similarly, organizations must build capacity: hiring or developing staff skilled in data science, ensuring data governance and quality, and aligning incentives so insights lead to action.

Conclusion

Dato’ Seri Ivan Teh’s presentation at SCDS 2016 does more than commend Big Data: it maps out what effective Big Data looks like, what is needed to achieve it, and what the payoffs can be. From using real‑time analytics to adopting AI, from tailoring strategies to investing in culture and capability, his message is clear: in today’s digital landscape, organizations that harness data well will lead. For those just starting, the journey may be challenging—but the destination holds transformative potential.