Researcher(s)
- Olumuyiwa Salako, , University of Delaware
Faculty Mentor(s)
- Eduard Hartono, Business, University of Delaware
Abstract
Business analytics has evolved from a niche support function into a core strategic capability within large corporations. This research explores that evolution by synthesizing findings from systematic reviews and bibliometric analyses covering the past 15 years of big data and data science research. As corporate interest in analytics grew, so too did the volume and complexity of data. The rise of big data—characterized by high volume, velocity, and variety—has been accompanied by a surge in data science methods and technologies aimed at extracting actionable insights at scale.
Big data research gained momentum post-2010, driven by interdisciplinary collaboration, increased global funding (especially from countries like China and the U.S.), and practical applications across industries such as healthcare, finance, manufacturing, and smart infrastructure. Meanwhile, data science emerged as a conceptual framework guiding the development of analytical tools and principles. Bibliometric evidence shows that while the two fields were once distinct, they are increasingly intertwined in both academic and business contexts.
This study also highlights a new challenge in the age of abundant scholarly information: the need for evidence synthesis. Researchers and corporate analysts alike must now navigate an overwhelming volume of data and literature, making systematic reviews and meta-analyses more critical than ever. This shift demands strong information literacy and strategic collaboration between researchers, librarians, and data professionals.
Despite the progress, challenges remain, including data quality, governance, ethics, and talent development. Successful organizations are those that align analytics initiatives with business strategy, promote a culture of data-driven decision-making, and invest in scalable technologies and interdisciplinary expertise.
In sum, the evolution of business analytics reflects a broader transformation in how large corporations generate value—by embedding analytical thinking, advanced technology, and systematic research practices at the heart of their decision-making processes.