The importance of modernising your data infrastructure

According to recent estimates, around 328.7 million terabytes of data are generated on a daily basis. In this era of big data, legacy systems are facing increasing pressure to keep up with the ever-growing demands of data processing, storage and analysis. To fully leverage their data infrastructure, businesses are encouraged to modernise their systems to reap the benefits of the new digital age

Enterprises can harness the power of data analytics to improve business performance by updating their digital systems. With advanced analytics tools and technologies, companies can uncover patterns and trends within their digital architecture. From back-end processes and cyber security to customer journey management and user experience, data enables organisations to optimise their operations and resources.

Legacy systems may struggle to process and analyse large datasets in real time, resulting in delays and inefficiencies in decision-making processes. In contrast, modern data infrastructure can provide real-time insights – empowering enterprises to make informed decisions quickly and efficiently – leading to improved operational agility and responsiveness to changing market dynamics.

What does a modern data infrastructure look like?

One of the key components of modernised digital architecture is the use of automation. With the sheer volume of data that organisations deal with, manual data management tasks can be time-consuming, error-prone and resource-intensive. Automation tools can streamline these processes; automated data integration, data cleansing and data migration can save valuable time and resources, allowing IT teams to focus on higher-value tasks such as data analysis and innovation.

Cloud systems are also a critical element of modern data infrastructure. Cloud computing offers scalable, flexible and cost-effective solutions for data storage, processing and analytics. Cloud systems enable businesses to store and manage data on demand, paying only for what they use. This scalability allows companies to be more agile and also eliminates the need for costly on-premises infrastructure and maintenance.

How can legacy systems be modernised?

Many organisations have invested heavily in legacy systems over the years, and replacing them entirely may not always be feasible or cost-effective. However, integrating legacy systems with cloud solutions can enable businesses to leverage the benefits of both worlds.

For instance, they can use cloud systems for data analytics and processing while still utilising legacy systems for critical business processes, such as transactional systems. This allows for a gradual and strategic transition to modern data infrastructure without disrupting day-to-day operations. A phased approach in implementing new architectures allows for better user adoption and doesn't shock the "system" - both in infrastructure itself and the end-users.

This hybrid approach is beneficial for companies that process confidential or sensitive information, such as in the banking or healthcare industries. Organisations can use on-premises infrastructure for sensitive data or compliance requirements while leveraging cloud infrastructure for data analytics, machine learning or other data-intensive tasks.

Can you afford not to modernise your data infrastructure?

At times, businesses may overlook the importance of modernising systems or undervalue the need. It's important not only to solve today's data challenges, but to modernise infrastructure to support future initiatives. In the long run, legacy systems may result in higher operational and maintenance costs because they are not optimised for future data processing needs. There can be a lag between the solution agreement and its implementation

Outdated systems significantly impacts customer experience, as they may not be able to provide real-time insights or support modern data-driven decision-making. This can result in lost customers and missed business opportunities.

How can businesses get started with modernising their data infrastructure?

The first step when modernising data infrastructure is to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the existing data systems and identify areas that require improvement. This involves evaluating the current state of data management processes, data storage, data processing and data analytics capabilities.

By understanding their current data landscape and identifying any bottlenecks or inefficiencies, IT teams can make informed decisions about the best technical solutions to put in place.

Businesses can consider partnering with cloud service providers to leverage their expertise in managing data in the cloud. Through these partnerships, companies benefit from a wide range of virtualised data services that can be accessed on demand.

Colocation is another option that organisations can consider when modernising their data infrastructure. This refers to renting space in a third-party data centre, which can use its facility to host IT servers and networking equipment. With colocation, businesses benefit from reduced costs and higher scalability compared to running an in-house data centre.

Another important aspect to consider is data security. As companies modernise their infrastructure, they need robust cyber security measures to protect sensitive data from cyber threats. With the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber attacks, companies need to implement strong access controls, encrypt data at rest and in transit, and provide employee training on cybersecurity best practices.

Enterprises should consider partnering with cyber security experts to ensure their data infrastructure is protected against potential threats and vulnerabilities. SEACOM Business offers these digital solutions to enterprises looking to modernise their data infrastructure. For more information or to get a quote, email us at marketing@seacom.com or leave us a message.

SEACOM operates Africa’s most extensive network of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure, including multiple subsea cables and secure internet connections tracing both sides of the continent. This is partnered with broad terrestrial fibre networks in Southern and East Africa, extending services to these regions.

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