Data backup is an essential element of data security and project management. Data backups help to keep important information secure and ensure that projects can be quickly resumed in the event of a system or hardware failure. As a project manager, it’s your responsibility to assess the risks associated with not having a reliable backup plan, as well as designing and implementing an appropriate backup strategy for your organization.
In order to make the best decisions about data backup, there are several factors to consider. First, you must assess how much data needs to be backed up on a regular basis; this includes both current and historical records. Data should also be backed up regularly, typically multiple times per day or week depending upon the amount and importance of the data being backed up. Data backups should also be kept offsite, in the event of a disaster or other unexpected emergency that could cause physical damage to the main data storage facility.
The types of backup systems you’ll need will depend upon your organization’s specific requirements, but common options include cloud-based solutions, local hard drive backups, and tape back-up systems. Cloud-based backups are typically more reliable than local solutions because they provide remote access and redundancy to ensure data is safe even if system hardware fails. Local hard drive backups can provide an additional layer of protection for important files in case of accidental deletion or corruption. Tape back-ups are often used for long-term archiving since tapes offer superior durability and longevity compared to other formats.
Finally, it’s important for project managers to develop and implement a comprehensive disaster recovery plan in the event of data loss due to system failure or natural disaster. Data backups are only useful if they can be accessed quickly and safely during an emergency situation, so having a plan in place that outlines which systems need to be restored first is essential.
Reference : Data Backup: What Project Managers Should Know