<P>With this book, managers and decision makers are given the tools to make more informed decisions about big data purchasing initiatives. <STRONG>Big Data Analytics: A Practical Guide for Managers</STRONG> not only supplies descriptions of common tools, but also surveys the various products and vendors that supply the big data market.<BR><BR>Comparing and contrasting the different types of analysis commonly conducted with big data, this accessible reference presents clear-cut explanations of the general workings of big data tools. Instead of spending time on HOW to install specific packages, it focuses on the reasons WHY readers would install a given package.<BR><BR>The book provides authoritative guidance on a range of tools, including open source and proprietary systems. It details the strengths and weaknesses of incorporating big data analysis into decision-making and explains how to leverage the strengths while mitigating the weaknesses.</P><UL><LI>Describes the benefits of distri