As a consultancy that specializes in environmental and geospatial matters, TerraLab understands the importance of collecting and managing spatial data.
ArcGIS Online is a cloud-based platform that provides a suite of tools and services to help users create, store, and share maps, data, and applications. However, it is important to note that data stored in ArcGIS Online is not backed up by default. This can pose a significant risk to organizations that rely on this platform to manage their spatial data.
ArcGIS Online
The benefits of using ArcGIS Online for collecting and managing spatial data are numerous. With this platform, users can easily access and analyze spatial data, collaborate with others, and create maps and web apps. The platform also provides a range of analytical tools, including spatial analysis, data enrichment, and machine learning, that can help users gain insights into their data and make informed decisions.
However, the fact that data stored in ArcGIS Online is not backed up by default can be a significant risk for organizations. If a data loss event occurs, such as human error, a server failure or a cyberattack, it can result in the loss of critical data, potentially causing disruptions to business operations and incurring costs associated with data recovery (assuming recovery is even possible!).
A Backup Strategy
To mitigate this risk, it is important for organizations to have a backup strategy in place for their spatial data. A backup strategy can ensure that data is protected and can be easily recovered in case of a data loss event. One common approach to backup strategy is the 3-2-1 principle, which involves having three copies of the data, stored on at least two different types of storage media, with one copy stored off-site. By following this principle, organizations can ensure that they have redundant copies of their data that are stored in different locations, reducing the risk of data loss.
Next you need to consider the frequency of your backups, and the duration you keep them for. Data that doesn not change regularly (such as aerial imagery or authoritative parcel boundaries) do not need backing up frequently (if at all), yet working layers such as those involved in mobile mapping do.
Then you should consider how long you keep the backups for. As a backup ages, it may become necessary to minimise the number of backups you keep. For example, if you run backups every night, you might not need the nightly copies after 3 to 6 months, at which point you could keep one per week. Once they are a year old, you may only want one per month. Implementing this approach will minimise the storage space required for your backups.
It is also important to test backups regularly to ensure that they are functioning correctly and that the data can be easily restored. This can involve performing test restores to a non-production environment to verify that the data is recoverable and that any necessary configurations are in place.
In addition, organizations should have a recovery plan in place that outlines the steps to be taken in case of a data loss event. This can include identifying critical data and systems, prioritizing their restoration, and identifying key personnel who will be responsible for managing the recovery process.
Spatial data backup
At TerraLab, we understand the importance of backup strategies for spatial data. We offer a range of services to help organizations protect their data, including backup planning and implementation, backup testing, and recovery planning. Our team of experts can work with organizations to develop a customized backup strategy that meets their specific needs and ensures that their data is protected in case of a data loss event.
In conclusion, while ArcGIS Online provides a range of benefits for collecting and managing spatial data, it is important to recognize that data stored in this platform is not backed up. This can pose a significant risk to organizations that rely on this platform to manage their spatial data. It is essential for organizations to have a backup strategy in place for their spatial data, including following the 3-2-1 principle, testing backups regularly, and having a recovery plan in place. At TerraLab, we are committed to helping organizations protect their spatial data and ensuring that they have the tools and strategies in place to manage data loss events effectively.
Reach out to discuss your backup needs.