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Storage management software – Optimize your data

by Casey Schmidt  |  November 8, 2019

4 min. read
A stack of physical servers.

Data is rapidly growing and companies are changing the way their data is stored. As a result, things like automation systems are a huge benefit. In order to successfully manage your growing data, learn how to implement these systems and sync them with your storage hardware.

What is storage management?

Storage management is the supervision and maintaining of a storage environment. Storage management software tools typically supplement the storage process. These software types monitor storage, optimize storage space and provide analytics and data. Furthermore, it encompasses different types of storage systems, such as cloud storage.

Think of storage management like a car’s gas meter. The meter monitors whether the car needs gas or not. It also tells how efficiently it uses the gas. The matter even says how much gas the car is capable of holding at any time. The meter is like a storage management software system – alerting users when there’s an error or problem with gas (stored data).

A car's dashboard meters.
Like a car’s gas meter, storage management monitors company storage.

Find software that syncs with company hardware

An often overlooked step in selecting storage management software is weighing it with your company’s hardware and physical servers. There are a lot of factors that could make your selection fail or succeed – examine them in-depth. This usually includes deciding between different types of storage management software. One of the most important things to consider is whether on-site storage or cloud storage fits best.

Determine whether or not the software you wish to choose negatively affects the hardware performance. Remember, software is only a portion of the storing procedure. Continuously test your software and hardware to see if they sync to improve the way your company handles storage. A good rule of thumb is to first check to see if the software service you choose has its own hardware. They generally work best when paired together so this should be your first option.

A picture of computer hardware.
Your management software system is only effective if it syncs with your hardware.

Find the right balance of accessibility

Whenever implementing a new system, it’s crucial that members have sufficient access. However, how much access is too much? Which systems allow the company to choose access levels? Which programs find a happy medium? Thoroughly address these questions before settling on a new program.

One important thing to keep in mind is that system access should be measured and allowed based on different team member positions. For example, a manager is typically going to need further access than a team member. Make sure whichever program you install allows for this to fluctuate based on your specific needs. Finally, ensure it reasonably allows a level of access to an extensive amount of users without any excessive planning or managing.

Stones balancing on top of each other.
Just like with anything else, balance is extremely important.

Monitor data and oversee storage analytics

All files and data stored should be monitored by storage management software and data storage solutions. This maintains and optimizes all relevant storage climates. It also minimizes IT involvement. Part of data monitoring is determining space available and watching for potential errors that could arise in the future.

Performance of company storage is a crucial component to a successful functioning data management. It’s important to monitor how well a storage system is performing and change it based on the findings. Storage management systems provide detailed reports and analytics of how data is being stored and how it functions.

A woman monitoring a lot of data.
The ability to monitor data is crucial.

Ensure efficient storage

Similar to a central library for company files, storage management software should offer company-wide access in a central location. This creates efficient storage because users can access systems in a singular area to avoid mistakes and confusion. It also ensures team projects finish on-time and without error, as members have a better chance at finding needed files.

Efficient storage is a result of different variables working in unison toward a common data storage goal. With the right management software and hardware systems, enterprises can thrive. With that being said, it’s important to measure the efficiency of each system before committing to it. Find the one that works best for you in all the important areas.

Managing storage has become a much deeper, more complicated task. Therefore, make sure you automate the process with software that handles your entire storage management procedures.