For better startup innovation, close the gap between people and data

Technology is central to innovation, but too much distance between your employees and company data can disrupt decision making and slow your business down.

By bringing your team closer to your most valuable data, you can remove the lag between collecting data and turning it into action. Access to near real-time data allows you to move quickly, while having the confidence that your decision making is anchored in insight.

This rapid access to data is made simple with edge computing. The concept of edge has been around for decades, but it’s only in the last few years that business owners have started to realize its extraordinary potential. It’s become a key part of any organization’s IT strategy – over 40% of IT decision makers say that edge is already unlocking innovation.

Here’s why edge should be on your startup’s radar, and how your team can use it to drive innovation and become more competitive.

Why businesses are turning to edge computing

Edge computing involves processing, analyzing and storing data at the “edge” of the network, so it remains close to its source. 

Historically, data would be transmitted to a central data center for processing. But as we use more remote devices and increasingly complex technology, the scale is surpassing the capabilities of traditional networks. From everyday devices like smartphones to connected cars and energy grids, it’s no surprise that current systems are buckling under the pressure.

This is where edge provides a critical solution. By moving computing resources closer to where the data is generated, you can avoid network bottlenecks and reduce the time it takes for the data to travel from its source to a destination (known as “data latency”).

The value of rapid data processing for startups

So what can startups do with faster data processing and management? There are plenty of benefits that can help your business create new competitive advantages.

Improve efficiency and productivity

Productivity is a priority for every business, but it’s especially important for startups. Most startups have a small team and lean budget – it’s vital to be able to optimize your resources and maximize the value of what you have.

Giving your employees access to real-time data allows them to make informed decisions in the moment. This can go a long way towards streamlining operations and delivering greater returns for your business overall. 

Ways that employees can utilize data include:

• Spotting errors or inefficiencies in equipment or workflows

• Ensuring resources are allocated effectively

• Responding to customer queries and issues quickly

• Tracking marketing campaigns and making timely adjustments

Accelerate your innovation

Dell’s Innovation Index found that innovation leaders are twice as likely to have made edge a central part of their strategy, compared to innovation followers or laggards. 

Being able to analyze and act on data at the source is a powerful way to foster a creative and forward-thinking culture. It can make your startup more dynamic and better able to adapt to changing market conditions and fast-moving consumer trends. 

It will also put you a step ahead of competitors who have to rely on outdated information, and might be slower or more cautious with their development efforts.

Support cutting-edge technology

As your startup grows and your requirements become more complex, it’s likely that you’ll start to bring advanced technologies into your business. 

Many of these tools will require faster data processing and low latency in order to work correctly. If you’re using artificial intelligence to automate part of your customer service, it needs to be able to make rapid decisions to deliver the best experience. 

By using edge to process data closer to where it’s generated, you’ll create a strong platform for innovation. Businesses in every sector are already making use of edge to improve their day-to-day operations, such as:

• Instantly processing customer payments on wireless point-of-sale devices

• Managing the shopping experience, including reducing crowds, speeding up self-checkouts and preventing shoplifting

• Raising alerts in manufacturing if technology detects that personal protective equipment (PPE) is not worn properly

• Using predictive analytics and machine learning to enhance quality control processes (see Intel’s project with Audi)

With the right technology in place, your business can successfully harness edge data to uncover efficiencies, drive innovation and secure an all-important competitive advantage.

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Join DWEN and connect with women founders

Technology is evolving rapidly and there are more opportunities than ever to use cutting-edge capabilities in your startup – but you don’t have to figure it all out alone.

The Dell Women’s Entrepreneur Network (DWEN) is a global community of women entrepreneurs, investors and advisors. As a DWEN member, you can share stories, learn from others, and access tailored resources to help your startup reach its maximum potential.

Find out more here.