Users can access data from a number of mobile devices by using BDaaS

These days, it seems like everything in business technology is being done "as a service." The aaS model is becoming increasingly popular because it refers to cloud computing and on demand applications. Instead of installing software, companies are using Software as a Service (SaaS). Instead of physical servers and systems there is Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS). Now, according to one prominent CIO, the next big thing may be BDaaS or, Big Data as a Service.

As previously mentioned in this blog, big data analytics is becoming increasingly difficult to manage due to the influx of information flowing in and out of organizational systems. Companies are becoming so overwhelmed by their data that they are unable to manage it properly, thus losing out on its potential benefits.

Adrian Gardner, CIO of the Nasa Goddard Space Flight Center, spoke at Temple University's Big Data Conference last month and shared his thoughts on the future of information management.

"Companies will have to morph for big data," Gardner said. "The companies that flow with information will survive, but we're going to be overwhelmed."

Gardner went on to say that an on-demand service in which data is viewed and analyzed in the cloud is the next logical step companies should take. Fortunately, Microsoft is already taking steps to accommodate this need. The business tech leader is developing a suite of on-demand cloud applications that can be accessed via Windows 8 on desktops and smartphones and Windows RT on tablets.

By using these tools, companies will enjoy the convenience of cloud-stored data that is easy to view and manage without overwhelming physical on-site systems. Microsoft Excel is a great way to store and report on information, but using an Excel plugin takes the application to the next level, ensuring that companies get the most out of their information.