Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) Practice Exam

What distinguishes real-time data from batch data?

1. Real-time data is less accurate than batch data

2. Real-time data is collected at a single point in time

3. Real-time data provides immediate insights while batch data is historical

4. Real-time data requires more storage than batch data

The correct answer is: Real-time data provides immediate insights while batch data is historical

Real-time data is distinguished from batch data primarily by its immediacy in providing insights. When data is collected in real-time, it is processed and analyzed instantly, allowing organizations to react to events as they happen, facilitating timely decision-making. This immediacy is particularly valuable in dynamic environments where changes occur rapidly, such as supply chain operations, where stakeholders benefit from having the most current information available. In contrast, batch data is collected over a set period and then processed all at once. This means that it captures historical information but lacks the immediacy that real-time data offers. As a result, batch data can be slower to yield insights, making it less suitable for situations where quick responses are critical. While considerations regarding accuracy and data storage are relevant in the broader context of data management, they do not fundamentally define the distinction between real-time and batch data as effectively as the aspect of immediacy and responsiveness does.