IBM published the article “Patterns for Combining Analytics with Operational Decision management in Smarter Processes” that looks at patterns that allow business insights and situational awareness provided by big data and analytics to be combined with Operational Decision Management to produce actionable responses in business solutions.

A retail scenario illustrates how IBM Operational Decision Manager 8.6 can be integrated with IBM SPSS predictive analytics, IBM Integration Bus and IBM Business Process Manager, to perform discounted pricing of books based on emerging customer characteristics. Recommended practices are described so that solution architects and integrators understand how these products can be used together.