For data analysts, crunching big data can be a big pain. Combine a plethora of different formats and a tendency for different types of data to be stored in across a variety of locations, and cross-referenced analytics can be a resource-consuming nightmare. IBM wants to change that with their machine learning DataWorks platform.

Everything in one place

Described by TechCrunch as a ‘Google Docs’ for data analytics, IBM’s Project DataWorks is an enterprise tool that gives analysts a means for bringing all of their data together in one place—and in a single format. Bigger, faster analysis is the name of the game.

Learning as it goes

DataWorks’ big strength for big data reportedly owes much to its ability to ‘think’ for itself. Powered by IBM Watson AI and Apache Spark’s open source cluster computing framework, IBM reports that DataWorks cognitivie-assisted machine learning means it can gather and process data at unprecedented speeds: up to hundreds of Gbps.

With that much grunt under the hood, DataWorks can bring data together from a variety of sources into a single accessible platform and even perform plain language searches to help analysts find what they need when they need it.

Who’s it for?

IBM says that it can serve the needs of large enterprise and SMEs alike. Although it may seem obviously attractive for big retail, financial services and telecommunications, Rob Thomas, VP of Analytics for IBM, says that medium size businesses are also being attracted to the platform.

Where can I get it?

DataWorks tools are available now via IBM’s Bluemix cloud platform. Pay-as-you-go plans start at $USD75 for 20GB.

To learn more about what DataWorks has to offer, click here.