According to InformationWeek and other resources, Big Data must rely on tape as data sets become on a daily basis. The truth of the matter is that data archives are becoming too massive for organizations to perform full backups.

And, disk-only storage is becoming way too expensive and is definitely not fail proof. To assure that data doesn’t get lost, organizations are increasingly embedding data protection into their storage infrastructures.

What this all means is that organizations must pay attention to:

1. Finding the most cost-effective, yet stable data storage infrastructure.
2. Developing systematic backup solutions that will safeguard data 24/7.
3. Getting creative as to how data is stored and accessed.

The key is to develop a system that allows for a particular piece of data (say a video or picture) to be accessed as quickly as possible, while making sure at all times data is constantly being backed up.

To accomplish this, we suggest finding the perfect mix of storage mediums for your organization. This can include a mix of magnetic tape, cloud storage, and disk. In order to choose the right mix, it is vitally important to take stock of the types of data that need to be stored.

In our opinion, tape should usually play a central role, especially where system backups are concerned. Experts at InformationWeek tend to agree – with LTO tape continually improving, there is absolutely no reason not to use it for backups and/or archive.

Additionally, its offline nature makes it quite cost-effective. Backups can be stored on tape and then placed in a vault or storage facility for 30 years and more.

Numerous companies have learned the hard way, the dangers of a disk-only in data storage infrastructure. Even Google has found itself thanking its lucky stars that tape was there to save the day – especially when hundreds of thousands of mail accounts were assumed lost. Thankfully, Google was able to use data stored on magnetic tape to restore all mail accounts.

Want to learn more about the value of tape? We would be happy to answer any questions you may have!

Contact us today: Info@BigDataSupplyInc.com | Toll Free 800-905-7329 | Local 949-679-6633

How to Organize an Enterprise Data System

Getting your data storage system installed and ready to use is only half the battle in the world of data management. According to technology expert Cliff Longman, it is essential that you look deeply into your business problems and seek to develop processes that will best serve your present and future.

The following are steps you can take to assure that you successfully manage your data:

• Set clear objectives. The more you understand what your data storage infrastructure was developed for in the first place, the better you can manage your data. Ask yourself questions like: How is the data we are storing going to benefit the organization? What data is the most important? How will we start the data storage process?

• Develop a business case. Gain an understanding of how your organization will benefit from the system and define its value in terms of operational efficiency, higher levels of business intelligence, and regulatory compliance. This will allow for a better understanding as to the value of the data being stored and the reasons behind developing the system in the first place. Also, it is valuable to understand the consequences of poor or lost data on the bottom line and service quality.

• Establish a governance process and rules. Prior to jumping into the data storage process, it is important to establish rules for maintaining data quality, efficiency, and consistency. There should never be a question as to who is responsible for making sure that data is being stored in the very best manner possible. Additionally, rules should be given to organizational member to assure they are benefiting the process.

• Inventory all data. Before adding massive amounts of data to your infrastructure, it is an excellent idea to conduct a full data inventory. This means not only discovering what types of data you own, it also means fully understanding how data is currently created, modified, and stored. The process will help you analyze what is currently working and what needs to change.

• Know who your business champions are. Identify key individuals throughout the organization across all departments who can help better the data storage process and define the steps that need to be taken to meet real-world needs. IT must have partners to make a true and lasting impact.

• Educate the organization. It is essential that you educate the organization on the importance of the data storage system and develop proper training. It is also a great idea to set up a knowledge base or forum that answers specific questions that may arise over time.

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for all organizations, but it is important that you consider the big picture at all times.

Have questions about data storage technologies and organization methods?

Contact us today: Info@BigDataSupplyInc.com | Toll Free 800-905-7329 | Local 949-679-6633

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