Enhancing Data Protection and Recovery: What Is Operationalization and What Are Its Benefits?

This blog on operationalization and its benefits is part two in a two-part series. Click here to read part one on eradicating change management outages.

Operationalization, in the context of technology, refers to the process of integrating FlashArray™ or FlashBlade® features into the everyday operational framework of an organization. This goes beyond initial setup, delving into ongoing management, optimization, monitoring and alerting, and alignment with data protection policies and recovery objectives. Such integration boosts data protection and recovery capabilities significantly.

Operationalization is crucial for customers as it:

• Enhances efficiency by streamlining operations and reducing redundancy
• Improves data security, by ensuring consistent application of security measures to protect sensitive information
• Facilitates compliance, helping organizations adhere to regulatory standards and avoid potential legal and financial penalties
• Optimizes resource utilization, maximizing existing resources and reducing the need for additional investments

Challenges in Achieving Operationalization

Achieving operationalization presents several challenges:

• Complex integration: Seamlessly integrating new technologies with existing systems can be a complex process even with the simplest of platforms. These complexities revolve around processes and policies driven by the customer, thereby customizing the solutions into complex process and change management platforms. 
• Skill gaps: Specialized knowledge and training is needed to utilize advanced technology features effectively.
• Organizational resistance: Changes in operational procedures can face resistance from staff accustomed to traditional methods.
• Keeping pace with technology: Rapidly advancing technology requires organizations to continuously adapt and update their operational strategies.

How to Operationalize FlashArray and FlashBlade with Data Protection Automation for Optimal Results

In the realm of data management, addressing often overlooked areas can lead to significant improvements in operational efficiency and security. Operationalizing data protection and recovery processes using Pure Storage® FlashArray or FlashBlade snapshots and replication, especially when integrated with automation, is a strategic approach that yields multiple benefits.

Let’s look at some of the comprehensive strategies and multifaceted benefits they can deliver. 

Efficient data protection with snapshots and replication:

• Instant, automated snapshots: Utilizing FlashArray and FlashBlade snapshots for instant snapshots ensures rapid and efficient data protection, significantly reducing recovery time in case of data loss or corruption.
• Space-efficient and cost-effective: Automated incremental snapshots minimize storage requirements, thereby reducing operational costs.
• Simplified and reliable management: Automated snapshot management ensures consistency and reliability across all data sets and systems, reducing the risk of human errors.

Robust replication for enhanced data security:

• Automated data redundancy: Continuous, automated replication to secondary systems ensures data redundancy, enhancing data integrity and protection.
• Seamless disaster recovery: Automation in disaster recovery operations facilitates meeting stringent recovery time objectives (RTOs), ensuring rapid recovery and minimal downtime.
• Flexible replication to meet evolving needs: Automated replication schemes are adaptable, making them suitable for evolving business requirements and increasing data volumes.

Seamless integration and proactive problem management:

• Automated integration with existing systems: Automating the integration of FlashArray and FlashBlade into existing IT environments aids in maintaining consistent data protection strategies, enhancing scalability without compromising on quality.
• Proactive monitoring and support: Continuous monitoring and support through automation helps in proactive problem management, pre-empting potential data loss events.

Enhancing security and compliance:

• Immutable snapshots for data security: Automated creation of immutable snapshots is crucial in protecting against ransomware attacks, ensuring data security and integrity.
• Secure replication processes: Maintaining strong security protocols during automated replication ensures compliance with regulatory standards and facilitates easier auditing.

Operational efficiency and strategic focus:

• Reduced operational and storage costs: By automating space-efficient snapshots, organizations can achieve significant cost savings, both in terms of storage and operational expenses.
• Strategic allocation of IT resources: Automation frees up IT staff from routine tasks, allowing them to focus on strategic initiatives that drive business growth.

Empowering Organizations with Advanced Workshops and Services

Our suite of advanced workshops and services is tailored to empower organizations in operationalizing technology efficiently:

• Operational Readiness Advanced Workshop: This workshop equips teams with the skills to seamlessly integrate new technology into existing operations, ensuring readiness and minimizing disruptions.
• SafeMode™ Workshop: A specialized session focusing on the robust features of FlashArray, like snapshot and replication, to enhance data recovery and protection.
• QuickStart Service: A rapid deployment service designed to get your FlashArray features up and running, ensuring immediate operational benefits.
• Automation Workshop: Streamlining operations by teaching teams how to effectively automate repetitive tasks, leading to efficiency and error reduction.
• Observability Workshop: This workshop provides insights into monitoring and managing technology infrastructure, ensuring proactive problem management.
• Customized Service Offerings: Tailored services that cater to the unique needs of different organizations, providing specific solutions to operational challenges.

Pure Professional Services can help businesses operationalize technology efficiently, forging a more robust and reliable IT environment that’s ready to face the challenges of tomorrow. Learn more about how Pure Professional Services can empower your organization.

Achieving
IT Agility

How the Pure Storage data management platform delivers tangible outcomes for customers.

Read the Ebook