Understanding the Different Forms of Data Virtualization

Data virtualization provides enterprises with numerous benefits. From greater data security and integrity to enhanced collaboration with internal and external partners, the proper application of data virtualization can turn a struggling enterprise into a profitable and successful one.

In practice, data virtualization takes on many different forms. While some are more useful than others, they are all equally confusing to those who aren’t familiar with their options.

Most modern business intelligence packages include some form of data blending. At its simplest, data blending describes the process of combining information from two or more sources into a constant stream of useful data.

But it’s important to understand the differences between processes like data blending and data integration. It’s common to hear people use the terms synonymously, especially in SQL query programming, but they describe different processes. Traditional data integration — also known as extract, transform and load processes — is a very standardized approach. Data blending is a process that offers greater flexibility and customizability on behalf of modern data analysts.

The typical data blending process is comparatively fast and efficient when compared to other forms of virtualization and data collection. Complications arise when many different data sources come into play, but next-generation software makes the job easier. Some of the most popular utilities for data blending include the following.

There are plenty of options available for enterprises interested in pursuing data blending in the 21st century.

Data service modules are typically included with data warehousing contracts. As a result, many different modules are available for public consumption. The Bing Spatial Data Services module, for example, makes it easy to upload data for use in cloud-based applications that rely on the Bing Maps service. Users have the option to mark their data sources as public to allow access by anyone with the appropriate key.