In recent years, technologies that allow for the recording, preservation, and instant analysis of massive data sets have been developed, facilitating the discovery of previously overlooked insights and novel mechanisms. The utilization of “big data” holds the potential to generate innovation and new business opportunities across a wide range of industrial sectors, and consequently, it has drawn significant attention.
This issue explores the possible impact of big data, while also outlining some case studies of its applications. At the same time, the Obayashi Project, which was conceptualized by OBAYASHI CORPORATION’s technical team, envisions future cities that are optimized both spatially and functionally through the use of big data.
（Published in 2014）