Data is the most valuable fuel that powers modern companies. In the time of the big data boom, all business owners should pay close attention to data management. It includes gathering, analyzing and storing essential information. Choosing the best methods to ensure that your data is not only safe but also easily accessible is key. In the followings, we would like to briefly present the newest innovations in data management and help you become the next data master!
What data is useful?
We know, that this whole data topic is getting a bit crowded: big data, data analysis, data science are different techniques – and more options for you to choose from. You can bump into numerous articles, posts on the internet emphasizing the importance of data. But how can you know if you are gathering the right kind of information? Is there something like bad data at all? Well, there is no easy answer to these questions. It depends on the size of your business, your primary goals and much more. What is for sure, is that most companies invest into data analytics.
This process includes logical, statistical techniques which can help you connect the dots within your gathered data. Data analytics can help you to illustrate, recap and evaluate the gathered information. By implementing such processes, you can gain tremendous advantages in the long run. It can help you define your potential users, reduce your costs and much more. From now on, you shouldn’t simply think of data management as a simple process. Gathering and storing information is only the first step. It is about something much more: data is the new gold!
How to start?
Well, if you are an early phase startup, you will be mostly concentrating on feedbacks gathered. However, if there are more complex data available, you should start thinking about a data analytics strategy. It includes numerous factors: clarifying the most important questions, approaches that can result in gathering valuable data.
Keep in mind, that you will also need skilled data scientists. These professionals will be able to handle the essential processes and analyze your gathered information. Prepare to build a multi-skilled team, with engineers, data architects to provide you with technical insights. Also, you will need someone who can draw consequences and present the results to decision makers. After all, we are talking about a complex, multidisciplinary process, essential to all modern businesses.
Storing data
Apart from gathering and analyzing data, you also have to find a way to store those valuable files securely. The usual methods here includes keeping offline, local saves of your files. In this case, you can have full control over your data at all time. A small business might find this type of data storage more efficient and more wallet-friendly. However, there are also extra costs including servers, server space, IT people, etc. Also, after you decided to purchase a new machine, transferring all local files can troublesome. It also comes with the extra risk, where something could go wrong.
On the other hand, Cloud Storage can save you from this kind of a headache. Storing your files in the cloud is one of the most convenient and popular forms of storing your data. Everyone can take advantage of the cloud, including average users, small and big business and so on.
However, this openness is exactly that super important point, which made numerous people raise their eyebrows. Apple’s iCloud is said to be 128-bit AES encrypted (just as numerous other cloud services). However, we still hear troubling news about hackers breaking into iCloud accounts. Security is still a huge concern when it comes to cloud storages, and this questions should be taken seriously. Obviously, there are other specialized cloud services for business users promising enhanced security. However, their prices are also usually “specialized”.
Alternative storage
It is also advisable to look into alternative options. Apart from the above mentioned popular options, there are tons of other specialized services on the market. Checking out a few can help you find the best data storing methods, suiting your own specific business. Virtual tape libraries are also available for the ones who want to replace their existing tape backup infrastructure. VTLs can help you virtualize your tape backups or create a stretched backup infrastructure.
There are numerous storage types out there. Among them, with a bit of research, you can find the perfect one. So don’t settle for less, then the best of the best! Who knows, maybe in a few years, we will be storing our most precious files in our DNA?
Gather, analyze, store – then repeat
Data management holds a whole new world for entrepreneurs. The benefits of a well-defined data management plan can easily make a difference when it comes to boosting your business. Data analysis will show you the most important patterns that can help you reduce costs, or engage more visitors. Make sure that you dedicate enough time to develop your own data strategy. Most importantly, don’t forget to follow the golden rule: gather, analyze, store – then repeat!
Looking for an awesome, unique, exciting speaker? Here is a Top 5 Motivational Speaker for your digital transformation event!