The Idea in Brief
Because of our ability to collect and analyze vast quantities of data, scientists now have the potential to solve some of the world’s biggest problems. But until very recently, we didn’t know how to combine the right data sets and see crucial patterns.
The turning point: By utilizing 21st-century computing power, human expertise, and a systematic approach to storing and mining information, scientists are beginning to achieve real breakthroughs. They’re also opening the process up to other experts—and even the public—by making their data transparent and available.
A hope for the future: Today researchers at Microsoft and other organizations are using these methods to attack problems in astronomy, oceanography, health care, water management, and climate change. These tools also have the potential to bring profound improvements to business.
A visitor walking the halls of Microsoft Research’s campus in Redmond, Washington, today is likely to overhear discussions not only about computer science but about a surprising variety of other subjects, from which way a galaxy rotates, to a new AIDS vaccine, to strategies for managing the planet’s precious supply of fresh water.