Technology
G U ID A N CE: Is cloud-based data storage for you?
F
or all of the attention that “the cloud” has been getting, the likelihood is that you
have been cloud computing for years. Though far more complex cloud computing
products are now available, free web-based email services like Hotmail and Gmail
introduced many to cloud-based computing many years ago.
One facet of the cloud revolution that may
benefit your bottom line and practice efficiency is cloud-based data storage. Cloudbased data storage services come with an
optimal mixture of features, capabilities
and pricing that make them powerful tools
for health care professionals and entrepreneurs.
What is cloud-based data storage?
At its most fundamental level, cloud-based
data storage is a service that allows you to
save and backup your data on someone
else’s computer. Except, rather than a
personal computer, “cloud storage” services
use servers or networks of servers to house
your files. Servers are essentially large
computers that guide commands and data
through the Internet.
How does cloud storage work?
In its most common form, cloud storage
is simply a rental agreement wherein you
agree to pay to lease space for your data on
a server owned by a cloud storage provider.
Each time to create, save or modify a file
on your computer, rather than saving the
file to your own computer’s hard drive, the
file is saved on the server on which you
rented space via the Internet. Automatically saving the modifications you make
to files from various physical locations is
called “file-syncing.”
What are the benefits of cloud storage?
Cloud storage is a cost effective solution
for clinics that deal with a large amount of
digital data. Most cloud storage solutions
are “scalable”, meaning that you will only
pay for the storage space you need. Many
Needs Assessment Tool
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How much data do you have to store or backup?
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How often are you required to transport data from one location to another?
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Do you work from different locations?
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How often do you collaborate with other health care professionals at
different locations?
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Do you currently have Internet access at your home and clinic?
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How is your data currently stored?
Is cloud storage affordable for your practice?
FALL 2013
Product Features
Need Want
Software Features
Automatic data backup n n
Syncing files across
multiple devices
n n
Accessibility from mobile
devices and tablets
n n
Data security
n n
Reliable infrastructure
n n
Multi-server backup
n n
Collaboration tools
n n
charge less than $10 or $20 per month for
their 50 to 250 gigabyte plans.
Additional features help to protect
your data from a variety of risks. For
instance, because your data is stored
offsite, it will not be compromised if you
experience a fire, flood or break in at your
office. Your data will also likely be backed
up on several of the servers that your
provider operates, so even if there is a fire
that damages one of the servers that your
data is stored on, a redundant server will
kick-in and your access to your data will be
uninterrupted.
Perhaps most importantly, cloud
storage is secure. Consider for a moment
where your patient records are stored.
Hardcopy files are only as secure as the
locks on your office door and file cabinets.