Chapter 1: Introduction to Data Mining

Chapter 1: Introduction to Data Mining: "We are in an age often referred to as the information age. In this information age, because we believe that information leads to power and success, and thanks to sophisticated technologies such as computers, satellites, etc., we have been collecting tremendous amounts of information. Initially, with the advent of computers and means for mass digital storage, we started collecting and storing all sorts of data, counting on the power of computers to help sort through this amalgam of information. Unfortunately, these massive collections of data stored on disparate structures very rapidly became overwhelming. This initial chaos has led to the creation of structured databases and database management systems (DBMS). The efficient database management systems have been very important assets for management of a large corpus of data and especially for effective and efficient retrieval of particular information from a large collection whenever needed. The proliferation of database management systems has also contributed to recent massive gathering of all sorts of information. Today, we have far more information than we can handle: from business transactions and scientific data, to satellite pictures, text reports and military intelligence. Information retrieval is simply not enough anymore for decision-making. Confronted with huge collections of data, we have now created new needs to help us make better managerial choices. These needs are automatic summarization of data, extraction of the 'essence' of information stored, and the discovery of patterns in raw data."