What’s data centralization?
To centralize data, it simply means storing everything in one central location, usually on a server. It could be a Windows server, a Mac server, a NAS, a cloud-based service like DropBox, or Amazon Web Services.
Why is it important?
A well-run company has a solid foundation and structure. This applies to its computer network as well. The benefits of data centralization includes organization, high efficiency, and financial saving.
Organization: One common problem we see is users storing files in random folders on their workstation - Desktop, My Documents, Downloads, etc. When a colleague needs a file, it’s usually sent through email or via a file-shar like Google Files or Dropbox. This lack of organization creates duplicates and outdated copies. Often time, users forget who has the latest revision and results in a colossal waste of time on cross-check.
High efficiency: When files are stored in one central location, everyone knows where to look for a file. When they are done with the files, they are saved in their original location, the server. No duplicates to clean up.
Financial Savings: Instead of backing up folders on each workstation individually, it only needs to be done on just one computer, the server. This lowers backup costs of originally multiple plans to just one.
Is your data centralized yet?