An Analysis of the Value of Data Ecosystem Tools for Industry 4.0

Product design is a process that involves many methods and practices to be able to create “good design.” From user studies to experimentation, the designer has many tools at his disposal to understand the market and the requirements of the product they wish to produce. Big data has been a disruptor in user analysis for many organizations wishing to get the bigger picture. It has proven to have many positive implications while also being restrictive to those willing to use it. Therefore, connected open systems where all stratums are able to access similar applications have been made available. With the 4th industrial revolution underway, and the ability to utilise a plethora of sensors and electronic data provided by internet connected devices, is it in the designer's interest to adopt modern data practices? During this research, the suitability of big data practices to designers was assessed to gain an understanding of the environment that would allow designers to utilise this new platform including the practice of open data and the systems required to manage it. This article will address emerging and current technologies in the use of data within the 4th industrial revolution. Big data and open data were critically examined of their processes and downfalls compared to how the designer would use the practices.