Big Data Processing Platform for Large Acoustic Datasets and Complex Data Pipelines: Leveraging Cutting Edge Open Source Software to Build Scalable Cost Effective Solutions

This white paper explores the foundational Information Technology (IT) systems necessary to support the processing of large datasets, particularly acoustic data, within ocean observing organizations. As ocean monitoring technologies advance, the complexity and volume of collected data increase, necessitating robust data processing pipelines for quality control, standardization, and reprocessing. The paper addresses the challenges these organizations face, including budgetary constraints, diverse stakeholder needs, and stringent IT security policies, which complicate technology investment decisions. Utilizing the “Framework for Making Successful Technology Decisions” by the National Center for Applied Transit Technology (N-CATT), this study proposes a systems thinking approach to guide the IT decision-making process. The framework emphasizes empowering stakeholders and facilitating their leadership in decision-making. The paper details a structured approach encompassing problem definition, solution development, procurement, and implementation phases, with a specific focus on the first two phases. A novel technical solution is presented, leveraging open-source technologies and modern cloud computing architectures to address identified challenges. This solution includes a locally-hosted infrastructure with a Linux-based environment, a virtual private cluster for scalable computing resources, and a software architecture for data versioning and automation. By implementing these systems, organizations can ensure efficient and secure data processing, accommodate rapid changes in research requirements, and manage the inherent complexities of large-scale ocean data. The proposed architecture aims to maximize value, enhance data quality, and provide a scalable and sustainable IT infrastructure. Future work will extend this study to explore procurement and implementation strategies.