Hardly any company is not concerned with secure data transfer in the context of digitalization. Tools that do not offer the option of secure encryption or logging are not very popular with users. This also applies to complicated and time-consuming solutions. When choosing a data transfer tool, you will come across a large product landscape. This blog post explains the criteria to consider and how to get a quick, detailed overview.
In addition to the functional scope of a fileshare tool are above all the topics Security, operation and supportand the Provider profile important aspects in the selection process. Each company attaches more or less importance to different criteria - depending on what the individual requirements of a data transfer solution. Nevertheless, in order to get a comprehensive overview of the added value and differences between the various products, we at doubleSlash, together with our development team Business Filemanagera Evaluation matrix created.
All requirements can simply be entered and evaluated here. The matrix is ideal for comparing several solutions or for evaluating a specific solution.
A central but often neglected topic is the so-called "Vendor Profile". It includes the Close examination of the data transfer tool provider. The main focus is on the Stability and trustworthiness of the provider. Among other things, this can be done with a view to the company's balance sheet (e.g. in the case of Federal Gazette) or via the company's headquarters. This is a central issue for SaaS offerings due to data protection. Here you should pay attention to European or better German locations in order to Data protection to be on the safe side.
Once the basic questions in the vendor profile have been answered and researched, we move on to the main aspect of the matrix: The "Product Profile". This area is very extensive. It includes topics such as Service portfolio, scope of functions, operation and support, as well as contract design to find.
When evaluating the service portfolio, it is important to ensure that the company's preferred hosting variant is offered: A SaaS solution or would you prefer an on-premise variant? Are individual customizing and functional enhancements offered in addition to the standard product? These additional features also refer to a competent provider.
Fileshare tool checklist: It all depends on the criteria
In the run-up to such a product selection, it is important to define which Absolute requirements MUST criteria or MUST NOT criteria are. The individual functions of the product need to be prioritized and weighed up. Many functions are now standard in data transfer tools, but each solution is designed for a different use case, which the providers want to use to stand out on the market. It can therefore be helpful to test individual tools with the matrix in order to Find out the differences.
Operating options and system requirements are also important basic requirements. For the on-premise version, it is important to clarify whether your own infrastructure is suitable (Windows server or Linux server). Many providers offer a List of system requirements which should definitely be compared when selecting a tool. With the SaaS variant, it is worth researching which hosting service provider is used and in which country the data is located. In addition, a dedicated installation should be considered for sensitive data, as there is a greater separation of data from customer to customer. Support services are always useful and helpful when introducing new software. It is important to consider whether an "all-round carefree" package is required or whether simple 8×5 support is sufficient. Many manufacturers also offer Individual support packages that can be helpful.
Another point that is part of a good service offering is the Contract design and invoicing. A good provider is characterized by flexibility and not by rigid contracts. Particular attention should be paid to Notice periods, billing cycle and billing method.
Many companies find the Selection of a suitable fileshare solution difficult. This is mainly due to the flood of offers and the different individual requirements. The Evaluation matrix helps to bring light into the darkness and to evaluate whether a tool fulfills the necessary requirements. It is important to research sufficient tools and, if necessary Information material to the company. You should also be aware of the company's requirements and pay attention to the flexibility of the provider and product.
Download checklist for selecting a file sharing tool
We provide you with a Evaluation matrix for the selection of a data transfer tool available free of charge. Simply fill in the Contact form and leave us your E-mail address. Then we will send you the Evaluation matrix including How To guide with pleasure.
Download checklist nowThe updated checklist with new features is now available! (as of May 2021)
