Big data is a term that describes the large volume, variety, and velocity of data that is generated by various sources, such as social media, e-commerce, sensors, etc. Big data can be analyzed using cloud-based tools and techniques, such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, or data analytics, to gain insights and make informed decisions. Big data can help an online retailer to understand its customers' behavior, preferences, trends, and feedback, as well as optimize its inventory, marketing, pricing, and sales strategies. Big data can also help the retailer to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and increase customer satisfaction and loyalty. Big data is a cloud service that does not require a large investment in human capital, as the cloud provider can offer scalable, flexible, and secure solutions that can handle the complexity and volume of data. Reference: CompTIA Cloud Essentials+ Certification Exam Objectives1, CompTIA Cloud Essentials+ Study Guide, Chapter 5: Cloud Native Applications and Cloud Data Analytics2, CompTIA Cloud Essentials+: Cloud Native Apps & Cloud Data Analytics3