Any business affected by new data regulations will certainly need a complete solution to data archival and retrieval. Likewise, those concerned with the integrity of backup and other stored data should consider an off site solution. Business lacking the necessary archival space or sharing documents over long distance could also benefit from having a place to send essential files.

Another factor is the convenience. A backup solution should fit within the established business protocols. The less changes to the way business is done, the easier it will be to adjust to the new system. Thought should be given to portability and how the data will be migrated during future upgrades. The right solution can be used to share data over distances or to make telecommuting easier as well.

Data management has gotten more complicated in the wake of accountability regulations such as Sarbanes-Oxley and HIPAA. Companies falling under this type of regulation must adhere to strict archival standards and be able to produce certain documents upon demand. In addition to maintaining the integrity of these records, chain of custody must also be recorded to show exactly how data is handled and by whom. Access to affected files must be tracked and recorded. Any backup and archival system that fails to meet the accountability standards now in place could spell huge liabilities in the future.

A proper backup solution will also ensure the right security is in place. These days, multilevel security protocols must be present in order to properly control access. Not all systems offer adequate security. Certain regulations require strict access control on a need to know basis. The system also needs to prevent tampering.

A good backup plan allows for loss prevention in the case of disasters. On site disasters can destroy all systems and associated data. Off site backup can help prevent this kind of total loss, keeping information properly archived and accessible.

Off site secure media storage is a step in the right direction for any business handling potentially sensitive consumer data. Not only will it help a company comply with regulation compliance and best practices, but it also protects it from potential liability due to disasters or mechanical failure. It’s hard to argue with solid performance.