And with advances in big data, he sees that as a possibility - he compares the management of big data combined with machine learning with the shipping container revolution in transportation.

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But, corporations are learning fast and IBM is clearly in the vanguard of this data revolution.

FORBES: IBM CEO Ginni Rometty Crowns Data As The Globe's Next Natural Resource

The project, part of the University for Industry, was described by Mr Blunkett as a "revolution in learning".

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