10 Important Things You Need to Know When Choosing Data Storage Company

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The ‘one-size-fits-all' solution doesn't apply to storage of data. It has been recently noted that cloud computing is being embraced more often, but before you decide on were and how the data will be stored, you first need to understand the type and amount of data to be stored, and the reason why you want to store the data. This will help decide on the course to take- whether you'll build on-premise solutions or move to the cloud solution. Cloud offers more promptness, minimal operating costs and more productive and efficient work. However, it may be daunting for some companies to find a data storage company that suits all their requirements.

The big question is can the data storage company fit into your company or organization's operations? Here are 10 important things you need to know when selecting a network data storage that will ensure your data is retrievable as well as protected.

         1.      Have knowledge of your data.

All data differs and it will greatly determine the storage strategy

         2.      Consider your unstructured data as well.

Think of how you can merge multi-organized data from your transaction system with unplanned or semi-organized data from your network, email servers and so on. Ensure the data management company you select allows you to merge all these types in the absence of months or years of data building efforts.

          3.      Security potentials

One main factor that holds business owners back from adopting data storage solutions is their concerns over security. For example, using cloud storage provider is essentially offering your valuable data to an unknown 3rd party trusting they will keep it safe. Make sure the cloud storage company has improved security and have implemented ample security measures such as firewalls, anti-virus software, routine security audits, and data encryption to protect your data.

           4.      Price.

Cloud vendor's prices have become increasingly competitive. Carefully observe the pricing structure for each provider- some provide monthly subscription fees while other demands an upfront flat fee to be renewed after some time elapses. Decide which pricing plan will suit your company.

           5.      Data storage site.

When searching for a cloud provider, be informed of where they are planning to store your company's data. All data is stored in a DVD library, but usually conveyed through network. The data storage companies use DVD tower to store your data in hard copies then stores it in a secure location.

You will also have to consider the country laws and policies which may affect the person who gets to access your data and how it will be managed.

            6.      SLA (Service level agreement).

This basically states what a vendor will do for your company and what your responsibilities are as the client. It may touch on the kind of data to be stored, how it will be stored, its protection, how arising issues will be taken care of, among other things. Make sure you know what your vendor's SLA demands so you know what to anticipate from them.

             7.      Technical support.

Technology also has its short comings; in case problem arises, it is always good to know you can rely on your cloud provider to receive some assistance. Find out how the data storage company manages technical support and enquire about their availability as well.

             8.      Credentials.

Confirm if the data storage company you intend to choose has the credentials required to offer a highly secure, accommodating environment.

             9.      Initiate data possession policy.

You are required to set the right data possession policies by the legal compliance and internal data governance because some of your data has to be retained for several years while other data may only be retained for days.

            10.  The data solution has to fit your data and not vice-versa.

Select a solution that offers the flexibility to select where to store the data on cloud and on premise. This will allow you to grasp present investments in data plans such as SharePoint and network shares.

Selecting a data storage company is very crucial to your company and there are various things to take into consideration. The above listed tips are very important to helping you make that crucial decision and step for your company.
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