Data flooding society not being properly used, experts say

Despite its promise to revolutionize society, the deluge of data gushing from credit card transactions, social media posts, smartphones and other sources has largely gone unused because those gathering it often haven't a clue how to take advantage of it. If analyzed properly, experts say, this information tsunami could greatly enhance our knowledge, allowing for more accurate predictions about everything from our susceptibility to disease and natural disasters to our electricity needs and consumer preferences. Yet recent studies have found that much of the compiled material is ignored, mismanaged or lost -- particularly by businesses, which gather most of it.