Explore the myths and realities of data classification and best practices for controlling an ever-changing data environment in this first report in the Sun Storage Strategy series

This report covers:

• Industry drivers in data classification
• Seven steps to a successful data classification initiative
• Myths vs. realities - making sense of industry buzz
• Best practices in storage assessments
• Case study - A major healthcare provider's approach to compliance
• Return on investment - one company's savings over five years

In addition the white paper "8 Steps to Cutting IT Operating Costs without Sacrificing Data Protection" outlines eight key steps to effective data classification and diagrams the layers of a multi-tiered storage strategy.

Investigate the concept of "systemic security", a methodology for embedding security and compliance controls throughout the IT architecture.

This report addresses:

• Five guiding principles of systemic security
• The most common approaches to data encryption
• Four phases of transformation associated with moving from a traditional data environment to a systemically secure, compliant IT architecture

Uncover hidden storage-related expenses, and five recommendations for optimizing the storage environment to control costs.

The report presents:

• Key considerations for conducting a full assessment of the storage environment
• Four levels of "tiered" storage
• How an insurance company was able to drive costs down by optimizing its storage environment.

Discove r how outsourcing part of the storage environment can keep the costs and challenges of storage management under control.

The report identifies:

• Four steps that every company must take when moving to a managed storage environment
• Key considerations for working with a third-party vendor
• The difference between outsourcing and selective sourcing