process using micro batch loads or event-driven updates. This technical constraint pays big business dividends because it makes it possible to deliver critical information to users in near real time. In other words, big data fosters operational analytics by supporting just- in-time information delivery. The market today is witnessing a perfect storm with the convergence of big data, deep analytics and real-time information delivery. BIG DATA ANALYTICS: PROFILING THE USE OF ANALYTICAL PLATFORMS IN ANIZATIONS 10 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY RESEARCH BACKGROUND WHY BIG DATA? BIG DATA ANALYTICS: DERIVING VALUE FROM BIG DATA ARCHITECTURE FOR BIG DATA ANALYTICS PLATFORMS FOR RUNNING BIG DATA ANALYTICS PROFILING THE USE OF ANALYTICAL PLATFORMS MENDA- TIONS BIG DATA ANALYTICS: DERIVING VALUE FROM BIG DATA