LOG analysis
monitoring
big data
Companies can leverage the power of Big Data by using tools and scalable solutions that provide new levels of insight into the performance and well-being of systems, pinpoint critical areas, and optimise operational flows. In addition, Big Data can be used to filter, visualise, and transform log data into valuable information to better facilitate decision-making, from debugging and problem-solving to creating impactful marketing strategies.
From enhanced marketing effectiveness to improved security measures
Log analysis is the process of collecting, inspecting, and interpreting data recorded in a log, a file that contains specific information on system or application activity. Log files essentially record everything that happens in our systems. It has to be monitored, decoded, and put into context to get a clear and precise picture of an activity’s progress.
System logs, network logs, security logs, and application logs contain important information on how a company or organisation is performing and what is happening in its external “showcases”. Companies can use Big Data to analyse logs, monitor the amount of space available, and record unauthorised access attempts and suspicious activities. They can also use it to find out which website pages and products are popular with customers, how business activities are reported or perceived on social media, and where users come from.
Log analysis also accelerates development, improves code, and monitors large-scale infrastructure.
Data: a strategic business issue
Big Data is a fast-growing market. In 2021, it was worth more than €1,300 million, an increase of +15.4 % compared to 2020*. The main areas of investment include the introduction of Data Lake platforms and the provision of software for data collection and integration.
Tools that allow a single point of access to data without the need to move it to a centralised repository will become increasingly popular as they enable the orchestration of multiple data sources (Cloud, Big Data platforms, Master Data Management, Database and Data Warehouse, and others).*
Regardless of their market sector, all companies can benefit from the in-depth analysis of structured and unstructured data, using it as a source of improved competitiveness and business resilience. In fact, the 2022-2025 forecast for digital enablers predicts that the Big Data market will grow to €1.6 billion (+12.7%).
*Source: Anitec-Assinform Report – Il Digitale in Italia 2022
How to generate business value using log analysis
Exploiting large volumes of log data using Big Data solutions allows companies to fully harness the value of data and use analysis to improve business processes.
Companies can use data to diagnose and troubleshoot servers, monitor and optimise application performance, and identify weaknesses and areas for improvement, such as in the network security perimeter. Identifying critical areas throughout the various production and distribution process stages allows businesses to locate the source of slowdowns or performance problems, how often they’re occurring, and which processes and players are affected.
Data analysis is indispensable for security as it helps identify patterns that could turn into threats, before cyber attacks can inflict major damage.
Thanks to advances in Big Data technology, data has become an added value that can help us analyse website traffic and performance and identify user behaviour and needs in a sophisticated and refined manner. Doing so allows businesses to optimise promotions and marketing campaigns and significantly improve customer care solutions. Examples include keeping track of ticket opening requests, improving response times and issue resolutions, defining realistic key metrics, and obtaining information on how users actually interact with applications.
The benefits of proper log analysis include:
Less time wasted
Rapid problem identification and resolution
A reactive approach
Production stability
A reduced customer churn rate
Agile releases and additions
Reduced on-premise or Cloud infrastructure costs
Improved reporting, leading to improved communication and greater efficiency
To get the most out of log analysis, data needs to be collected accurately and comprehensively. In addition, analysis tools must be adapted to system and application needs. Furthermore, the team responsible for analysing logs needs to know how to interpret data correctly and act accordingly to solve problems or improve system performance.
Improving log analysis practices is part of a holistic approach to business operations. Valuable data, analysis and research, security, and innovation all facilitate decision-making processes and help to streamline business activities.
