I’ve previously blogged a bit about data backup, but the topic is worth a bit of a closer look. In the context of disaster recovery, it’s also important to mention that there’s more to it than just data backup and recovery.

For starters, though, consider how much your business relies on its data. Chances are, you rely on it much more than you think–emails, documents, notes, calendars, records, photographs, etc. As the earthquake in Haiti recently has reminded us, one minute things are normal, the next the very ground falls out from under us.

It is important to invest in preparedness, especially when it comes to your data. Begin formulating a data backup strategy by identifying the places data resides in your business:

• servers
• PCs
• laptops
• smartphones
• USB sticks
• USB drives
• memory cards (SD cards, MS, etc.)
• CDs
• DVDs
• tapes

It’s actually a little harder than it seems–you may discover that data is sprawled out on more devices than once thought, and even worse, you may not even realize all the places it is residing. So, start here by building a list of data-bearing devices and media within your business. By itself this can be a chore, so let’s leave it here. More next time!

Speaking of the Haiti earthquake, please consider how you can help, starting with financial support of a trustworthy aid organization. The Red Cross is always in need, and I recommend Compassion International as well.