The amount of data in our world has been exploding, and analyzing large data sets -- what's been dubbed big data -- is one of the hot topics at the internet conference. The industry is still in its infancy in China.

China was connected to World Wide Web in 1994. Since then, the Internet has changed the way the Chinese live and do business. In June, Xi Jinping emphasized the role of big data during his tour in the southern city of Guiyang. He stressed the need for more investment and research.

The president's stress on the huge role big data indicates its importance to China -- the combination of scientific innovation and social development is a strong impetus for both the economy and the civilization.

To some extent, Guiyang's road has set an example for other areas in the country which have yet to catch up.