Imperial College Launches Large Scale Data Visualization Observatory
Imperial College Business School has announced the launch of an observatory that transforms data into images, the largest of its kind in Europe.
The KPMG Data Observatory is made of 64 monitors that comprise a 313-degree view of surround vision, and it is powered by 32 computers. Unique in that it allows users to observe data patterns that they would not be able to detect on ordinary computer screens, the observatory was designed, built and created by the College’s Data Science Institute.
Data visualization can be used for such purposes as predicting and preventing digital fraud, identifying hackers, analyzing global warming patterns, and observing the solar system. In a press release, Professor G. ‘Anand’ Anandalingam, Dean of Imperial College Business School said: “Big data is changing the way everyone operates and for businesses to compete in a globalized economy they need to be able to make sense of all the valuable information that is being generated. By enabling researchers and businesses to visualize and make sense of complex data sets, the KPMG Data Observatory will prove vital in providing new insights into their markets, customers and services that will help businesses make faster, more accurate decisions and stay ahead in a competitive market.”
The project is part of a $20 million dollar long term investment by KPMG. It follows the 2014 launch of the KPMG Center for Advanced Business Analytics.
About the Author
Maggie Boccella
Maggie Boccella, a lifelong resident of Philadelphia, is a freelance writer, artist and photographer. She has consulted on various film and multimedia projects, and she also serves as a juror for the city's annual LGBTQIA Film Festival.
