5 Common Scenarios that Lead to Data Loss
We all depend on our computer and the data that it holds to the extent where we take it for granted. We tend to assume that the information we collect, that helps us with day-to-day business activities, will always be there. But data loss is more common than we realize, and for those of us who run businesses, this can be a significant problem.
Below are five common scenarios that can lead to data loss. You can minimize their impact by creating data backups on a regular basis. If the hardware is old or the data isn’t critical to your operation, you can try to run recovery software in an attempt to access your data. But that path comes fraught with risk. If the data is valuable and the loss is significant, you’ll have more success by talking with a data recovery company.
Common Ways Data Loss Occurs
Accidental Deletion
We all want a clean working environment, and that desire may carry over to our desktop screens and file storage. Sometimes we might get a little carried away and delete a file that we needed while we’re attempting to declutter and clean up.
If we don’t have a backup, and we delete the wrong file, that scenario can present a real problem. Accidental deletion is frustrating, but it does happen.
Viruses or Malware
As businesses and organizations gather larger amounts of data, hackers find new ways to attack that data every day. The more valuable it is to you, the more potential value it might have in the wrong hands.
The damages can vary greatly depending on the virus, but when hackers go after business data the threat can be serious. If there is serious monetary value attached to the data that you hold, the threat of viruses or malware needs to be taken seriously.
Smartphone Device Corruption
We’ve come to depend greatly on the computers in our pockets, but they are susceptible to risk, as well. Photos, music, and other files kept on smart phones can be lost or damaged. There may be deletions, formatting problems, or hardware crashes. Any time your phone is dropped or submerged in water, your data is at risk.
The good news is that file recovery programs can work on your phone as well. But for the highest success rates, you’ll want to contact a data recovery specialist.
Physical Damage to the Computer
If the computer fell or was hit by something, or it is otherwise physically damaged, you run the risk of data loss. If that physical damage extends to the hard drive, that can likely impact the ability to call up certain files. In other words, your data is likely damaged, too. If the computer powers up, you might be able to run some data recovery programs on it and see what happens.
Power Failure
Power failures carry risk on multiple levels. First, there is the risk that anything you might be working on at the moment is lost or damaged. Second, a change in voltage can damage any number of computer parts and cause lasting damage. Creating regular backups can help reduce the risk of data loss in the event of a power failure.
The Technology Industry’s PR Problem
When the internet and social media companies were in their infancy stages, trust and optimism were high. The public had positive outlooks on what the future might look like with new technology reshaping the world. Today, that same level of trust simply isn’t there.
Companies that struggle with privacy issues struggle with their image, and rightly so. The urgency to remedy any privacy issues is high for this reason. Consumers expect to be able to use services without having data sold to third parties or stolen. But this year, the word “techlash” took off, and Oxford Dictionary defined it as the strong and widespread negative reaction to the growing power and influence that large technology companies hold.
Presidential candidates are making technology an issue by calling for the breakup of some of the industry’s larger companies. Big names like Bill Gates, Elon Musk, and Mark Cuban are warning people that artificial intelligence could spell the end of the human species. All of this means that Silicone Valley and the tech industry in general no longer benefit from the public’s blind trust.
Social Media Companies
Consumer trust in social media is still at a significant low, following the 2016 presidential elections. Concerns rise as a handful of these companies gain a stranglehold on massive amounts of consumer data and what might be possible with it.
Trust remains a significant issue for Facebook, Google, Amazon, Twitter and other companies that work hard to collect massive amounts of data. Google compiles data from every search. Amazon is compiling data every time you use Alexa. All of it is done behind the scenes, and the public may generally remain skeptical about how much of it actually benefits users.
The Tech Industry as a Force for Good
Tech companies need to proactively earn back the public trust now, so that they can get on with solving the problems of tomorrow. A lack of trust now could significantly impede their efforts in the long run as they face developing new technologies.
For example, more can be done to safeguard the use of data while keeping users’ best interests in mind. Tech companies can do more to place the greater good of their communities above their profit line. This may mean finding other metrics to measure success other than time on site.
Blockchain, AI, autonomous automobiles, IoT, the cloud, mobile technology and other new developments carry with them a significant amount of promise. It’s easy to see how these developments can replenish the public’s optimism. But at the same time, fears on issues such as automation or the threats of AI need to be addressed.
From an ongoing PR perspective, users need to be able to realistically trust that they won’t be leaving themselves vulnerable as they use these services. They need to be able to trust that using these new products won’t leave them exposed in the long-term.
How Technology is Changing the Workforce
It was only a few decades ago that companies handled everything in an analog fashion. If you wanted to conduct a meeting with a valued client halfway across the country, you needed to purchase plane tickets. Important documents needed to be printed, and keeping track of meetings, agendas, and to-do lists required significant effort, and good old pencil and paper.
The workplace has significantly changed over the last few years, and technology is leading the way. Communications and logistics have been simplified through software, apps, and modern tech advances. Technology has led to significant advancements in:
- Communication
- Task performance
- Management
- Outsourcing
The Internet and modern technologies have allowed businesses to double-down on their goals while operating in a much more efficient manner.
Below are Some Ways Technology Has Helped in the Workplace
Enhanced Communication
Email is a prime communication tool. It can provide written documentation relating to specific projects and more. Smartphones, social networking, chat apps and more have revolutionized companies’ internal communications. Video chats through apps like Skype, Google Hangouts, or Apple’s FaceTime have made it possible to be remote and visible at the same time.
This opens the door to making remote work an easier possibility, keeping employees happier at the same time. It makes long-distance client and customer relationships even easier. Technology allows for people who may not be inside the office to remain in the loop when necessary.
Staying Organized
Technology eliminates the needs for massive stacks of paper. It eliminates the need for a mess of notebooks, daybooks, calendars, and more. Mobile apps and project management software can help keep your organization efficiently on track. It can promote responsibility, accountability, and highlight what needs to happen for timely project delivery.
This kind of software programs and apps can increase quality and efficiency – meaning that you simply just get more done.
Productivity is Key
Modern productivity software helps organizations track all aspects of execution on a daily basis. It allows companies to track progress and better understand what needs to happen internally in order to meet specific goals and deadlines.
Improving Security
Businesses require a higher level of security to ensure safety and efficiency and technology plays a significant role in this process. Hardware and software add enhanced data encryption so that only the right parties are able to view sensitive materials. Fingerprint and facial recognition each add additional levels of security.
Companies now require additional software and algorithms to protect sensitive data and prevent it from being lost or stolen.
Enabling Remote Work
Millennials want the freedom and flexibility that comes with remote work. Studies are showing that companies can benefit greatly from allowing their workforce this benefit – and with technology it’s easier.
You can create a powerful, interconnected virtual workforce all aligned with the organization’s goals. Cloud technology, video conferencing, and instant messaging all help companies coordinate with their workforce no matter where they are located.
Conclusion
Technology has changed the look and feel of the workplace from just a few short years ago. Organizations that fully leverage the freedoms and conveniences that come with enhanced technology will put themselves in a position to succeed in the future.