Backing up tips

Posted: 13.02.09  |  Created by: Do Something

If you’ve ever been on deadline and accidentally deleted an important report, crashed your hard drive, or had your computer stolen, we don’t need to remind you to “back up your work”. Many of us print out files because we fear losing data. However, paper is not the smart solution.

Properly backing up your files is vital in the move to a 'Paper-Less' office. Use these tips to go 'Paper-Less' and avert a data crisis:

1. Develop a backup plan - before you need it
Do you need to backup daily, weekly or monthly? Make a plan and stick to it.

2. Backup frequently
Most people should back up daily. There are simple solutions available that will automatically backup for you.  

3. Save revisions of important files

Even an old copy of your file is better than none during a crisis.

4. Have more than one backup
Always have several backup disks on hand. You could use one disk for every day of the week, or for any combination of days.Many companies are now also utilising secure online backup services.

5. Watch your storage space

Be sure to use a device that has enough space to hold everything you need during a crisis.

6. Test your backups

Check your files are being backed up and can be accessed.

7. Store a copy of your critical data off site
If there is a robbery, fire or flood your data can disappear for good. Store a backup disk at home, in a safety deposit box or online.

8. Use a backup schedule
Schedule backups to run at nights, on weekends, hourly or each time you save.

9. Make sure you have enough backup media
Don’t be forced to skip a backup because you're out of media.

10. Don’t procrastinate
Be proactive and begin to backup your data today - it's quick, easy and automatic.

Check out Jon Dee's paper reduction video.

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