Cloud-based data backup services are essential for disaster recovery
Q: Why is it important for small and medium businesses to have a disaster recovery plan?
A: When disaster strikes, most businesses have procedures and drills in place to protect employees, but many don’t have a plan to keep their business running. Up to 40 percent of small businesses never reopen following a major catastrophe.
Q: How can these business owners protect their data?
A: Select a provider that offers cloud-based services that automatically back up your business data to a secure, redundant data storage facility. This will give you 24/7/365 access to your company’s files and customer information from anywhere on any device — even if your physical business location has been impacted.
Q: When is an off-site data storage facility needed? A: If the nature of your business requires added redundancy or more customized storage solutions, an off-site data center is another business continuity solution to consider. Data centers offer a variety of services, and many are built to provide pre-furnished emergency workspace.
Q: What about staying connected to customers? A: Communication is a critical part of resuming business. Before the event occurs, select a telephone solution with built-in disaster recovery features offered over a private network. This will allow you to route calls to sales, customer service or other parts of your business as well as the capacity to instantly route calls to cellphones if the main line goes down.
Q: Where can I learn more?
A: A great place to learn more about emergency preparedness and business continuity is the Small Business Administration’s website (SBA.gov). Also visit CoxBlue.com for additional ways to protect your business.