In the context of data, what does the term 'streaming' imply?

The term 'streaming' in the context of data refers to the continuous flow of data that is provided in real-time for immediate consumption. This implies that data is delivered in a steady, ongoing manner, allowing applications to process and utilize information as it arrives, rather than waiting for all data to be collected first.

Streaming is particularly valuable in scenarios where real-time analysis and reaction are vital, such as monitoring live events, processing financial transactions, or analyzing user behavior in real time. By using a streaming approach, organizations can leverage timely insights and respond to changing conditions or user interactions without the latency associated with batch processing.

Therefore, the focus on real-time use distinguishes streaming from other data handling methods, where data might be accessed on-demand, processed in batches, or required to be stored before any usage can occur.