Data Structures and Algorithms in Action: Case Studies from Tech Giants
Data structures and algorithms (DSA) are essential tools used by leading tech companies to solve complex problems efficiently. Here are a few real-world case studies showcasing how DSA is applied in practice:
Decision Trees at Uber
Uber's mobile app had to implement complex business logic based on numerous rules and user choices. Using a series of if-else statements became unwieldy. Instead, Uber engineers implemented a decision tree data structure, which made the logic easy to validate, implement and maintain. The decision tree used rules as edges and possible outcomes as leaf nodes.
Uber's mobile build system, SubmitQueue, also uses decision trees to predict merge conflicts and optimize the build queue. This speculation graph approach is similar to a binary decision tree and has significantly improved build times.
Interoperability Challenges under the Digital Markets Act (DMA)
The DMA requires large online platforms (gatekeepers) to make their services interoperable with smaller competitors. This poses challenges around security and data privacy. For example, enabling interoperability between messaging apps like iMessage and WhatsApp would require sacrificing end-to-end encryption to some degree. Smaller startups may also lack the security infrastructure of big tech firms.
Algorithmic Techniques Used Daily
While algorithmic interview questions are overemphasized, data structures and algorithms are still an essential toolset for building innovative software. When working on new projects, engineers often need to choose the right data structure and algorithm based on the problem at hand.
Some common data structures used include:
- Hash tables
- Linked lists
- Trees
- Graphs
- Heaps
- Queues
Stacks
Algorithmic techniques like sorting, searching, recursion, and dynamic programming are also frequently applied.
Scrutiny Under New EU Regulations
The European Union's Digital Services Act (DSA) and Digital Markets Act (DMA) are already drawing scrutiny of big tech practices. The European Commission has opened formal proceedings to investigate TikTok's compliance with the DSA regarding addictive content, age verification, ad transparency, and researcher access.
X also became the first company to face a formal DSA investigation over insufficient content moderation.
Wrap Up: DSA Applications Case Studies in Real-World
In summary, data structures and algorithms are a core part of how leading tech companies build innovative products and services. While the specific applications vary, mastering DSA programs concepts is crucial for any aspiring software engineer. Staying up-to-date on new regulations is also important as the tech landscape evolves.
