Define the term 'big data' relevant to business intelligence.

The term 'big data' refers specifically to extremely large datasets that are so vast and complex that traditional data processing software cannot adequately handle them. In the context of business intelligence, big data encompasses data that is characterized by the three Vs: Volume, Variety, and Velocity. These datasets can come from various sources, including social media, transaction records, sensors, and more, and require advanced processing tools such as data mining, machine learning, and sophisticated analytics platforms to extract meaningful insights.

This complexity and scale are essential for businesses, as leveraging big data can lead to better decision-making, improved customer experiences, and more efficient operations. Understanding big data allows organizations to identify trends and patterns that may not be visible in smaller, more manageable datasets, thus enhancing their overall business intelligence capabilities. In contrast, the other options reference smaller or less complex data formats, which are not capable of capturing the full scope of what big data represents in a business context.