Big Data Analytics
4. Research Methodology
To develop the proposed correlation taxonomy, the authors have applied the problem-centred approach of the design science research methodology (DSRM) presented by A Design Science Research Methodology for Information Systems Research. Five DSRM activities were drawn to come to a rigorous and relevant research results as listed and defined in Table 1.
| DSRM Activity | Research Application |
|---|---|
| Identify problem and motivate | The existing problem was identified from existing literature and previous research projects. The research problem identified was the lack of realising the actual correction between big data analytic methods and its associated techniques based on a known approach. |
| Define objectives of a solution | To develop a structural model combining analytic methods used for big data and its recommended techniques based on research approaches that are compatible for various sectors. |
| Design and development | Several phases were required to fully develop a taxonomy aimed at formatting and structuring big data analytics techniques according to research approaches. The full understanding of each phase evolves and improves the taxonomy concept. The taxonomy was reviewed against big data analytics techniques (and methods) creating finer taxonomy. |
| Demonstration and evaluation | The demonstration and evaluation formed the basis for the design phase of the following iteration. For the future a final evaluation scenario will be used in order to raise the discussion on the importance and limitation of the presented correlation taxonomy in this research. |
| Communication | Research published in academic papers. |
Table 1. The design science research methodology (DSRM) activities application.
Thus, to provide a clear structure of the big data analytics correlation taxonomy based on research approaches, a clear understanding for the big data analytical methods correlation is fundamental. Besides, a correlation between the techniques and the methods needed to be investigated. In conclusion, based on existing literature in the big data analytics field, two correlations were explored in this paper: first, correlation between big data analytical methods; and second, correlation between big data analytical methods and techniques. The outcomes are presented in the following subchapters.