How to approach virtualisation, storage and backup

IT consultant Jon Ashford-Clark explains how to make the right choice when selecting data storage, virtualisation and backup systems.

There is one certainty when dealing with technology – it is always changing and advancing.

In the past few years, the concept of virtualisation has made possible significant advances in data storage and backup. Virtualisation creates any number of mini-systems within an IT installation and this flexibility can bring significant benefits and cost savings to business. But faced with the range and complexity of systems on offer, how do you ensure that you select the right system for your company?

The process needs to be well structured and thought out: it’s no longer simply a case of installing faster servers and more disk space. To make the most of the potential for virtualisation, storage and backup, you need to look at the overall strategy and make sure it fits with your company’s business objectives.

Identify your needs
Start at the beginning by considering your specific business requirements. You may wish to carry out an audit of what is currently in place and ask key questions of what your organisation’s needs will be in the future.

About the author
Jon Ashford-Clark is a Principal Consultant with 4C Strategies. Based in Leicestershire, 4C Strategies is an independent technology consultancy that advises enterprises on all aspects of ICT including unified communications, virtualisation, storage and back up technologies to a range of private companies and public sector organisations.
 

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