Topics Tools Books & Guides Talk to Securafy

Knowledge Hub / IT Operations

IT Operations

The Responsibility of Managing Data

The Responsibility of Managing Data

Randy Hall By Randy Hall Updated Jul 2024 3 min read Share

Our world is overflowing with data. By 2025, experts anticipate there will be 180 zettabytes of global data. That is an abundance of information. Managing all of this data, however, is a huge responsibility. It could cost a lot of money and even harm the environment if we do not.

What Happens When We Waste Data

All of this data storage requires energy. That energy is frequently derived from non-renewable sources. Data centers storing all this information are adding to carbon emissions. What’s more, there is not enough accountability for data management. Some businesses are wasting money storing unused and unwanted data.

How Business Owners Feel the Pinch

For business owners, especially in the IT sector, this is a big problem. Many spend a lot of money storing data they never use again. This waste is increasing as businesses collect more data. This puts a lot of pressure on IT leaders. 75% of them find managing excess data storage a significant stressor.

Recognizing When We Waste Data

To fix the issue, we first have to recognize the problem. Here are five signs your business might have data waste:

  • If you are not adding the correct metadata.
  • If you think the data has no purpose after you have used it once.
  • If your team does not see value in the data.
  • If there is poor communication between your teams.
  • If your team is finding it hard to interpret the data.

Tips for Better Data Management

Avoiding data waste is about more than just having good tech. It is about changing how your team thinks about data. It starts with knowing what data you need and how to use it. Here are a few steps you can take:

  • Equip your IT team with the right digital tools to manage data.
  • Make a good plan for how you will handle data.
  • Move your data into the cloud with the help of hyperscale providers.
  • Invest in proper training and best practices.

Don’t Drown in Data

Managing data properly has become critical. You can make better decisions by understanding what your data is worth and the impact of storing it. Teach your team to understand data. Make a good plan for handling data. Give your IT team the tools they need. Instead of stressing about managing data, turn it into a chance to make your business run smoothly, save money, and protect the environment.

Join The Conversation

Have a question or perspective on this topic? Add it below.

Randy Hall

About The Author

Randy Hall · CEO & Founder

Randy Hall is the CEO and Founder of Securafy, with decades of experience helping organizations make smarter, safer decisions about technology.

A frequent speaker and instructor at national IT events, Randy has advised thousands of organizations, from startups and SMBs to large enterprises and U.S. government entities, on secure, practical technology adoption. He writes about the decisions business leaders are often expected to make without enough context, including cybersecurity, compliance, AI, cyber insurance, IT strategy, and business resilience.

Outside the office, you’ll often find Randy on Lake Erie enjoying time on his 38-foot Chris-Craft.

Writes about: Cybersecurity strategy, compliance, AI security, business resilience, cyber insurance, SMB risk, IT leadership

More From This Author →

Get Practical Cybersecurity Field Notes

Monthly cybersecurity, compliance, and IT strategy updates from Securafy, written for business owners who need clear next steps.

  • Practical security tips from our Cyber Security Drip series
  • The Securafy Times, our monthly roundup on compliance and IT strategy
  • Occasional updates on new tools, guides, and research
  • No spam — unsubscribe anytime