Starbucks goes beyond recommendations by using big data to deliver special offers that feel more relevant, and the chain has bridged the gap between technology and human connection by making personalized information about each customer available to its baristas.

Coca-Cola collects data on its customers to boost current consumption and upsell new products, which has led to a more efficient operation that cuts costs and boosts profits. As consumers share their opinions of the product through social media, phone or email, it allows the company to adjust its approach and better align with consumer interests and demands.

UPS has built a modern data-driven supply chain that collects data from multiple sources. ORION, or On-Road Integrated Optimization and Navigation, is one of the elements of that supply chain. The ORION algorithm processes data from customers and vehicles to optimize delivery routes in real time as new data becomes available about traffic jams or weather events.

Shell uses data from its different vendors to predict when more than 3,000 different parts used on oil drilling machines are likely to fail. The data is used to manage Shell’s spare parts inventory.