PeopleTray is a modern web application offered as a Software as a Service (SaaS). Developed on the Microsoft Azure platform, it is a cloud-native system with data securely stored in the Microsoft Cloud.
As a cloud-hosted solution, PeopleTray serves as a cost-effective management tool that is easily accessible for your team. For many organisations, cloud systems are generally more secure than traditional on-premises data storage due to the investment and expertise that leading cloud providers (such as Microsoft, Google, and Amazon) dedicate to service recovery, redundancy, scalability, and security.
However, storing data - whether on personal computers, in-house servers, or cloud services - comes with inherent risks, including:
- Hardware failures (equipment, infrastructure, communications)
- Software malfunctions
- Viruses and malware
- Backup process failures
- Human error (e.g., accidental data deletion)
- Theft or sabotage
- Legal risks based on jurisdiction
- Natural disasters
- Power outages or surges
- Vendor failures
Additionally, relying on external cloud storage poses risks related to internet access, which is essential for using cloud-based management tools.
Multi-tenancy in cloud systems can also introduce risks, as instances of one organisation accessing another's data have occurred due to shared infrastructure. However, the extensive resources and expertise of major cloud providers generally result in lower overall risk compared to in-house networks.
Even with a reduced risk profile, it's crucial for businesses to understand these risks and have plans in place to ensure resilience and rapid recovery from negative events, such as:
- Disrupted data access
- Data loss (deletion, corruption)
- Data theft
- Assessment of likelihood and impact of negative events
Effective risk management involves evaluating the probability and consequences of adverse incidents while implementing strategies to minimise their likelihood and impact. This can be challenging due to factors like:
- Insufficient information and unpredictability
- Complex and ever-changing technology ecosystems
To mitigate the impact of data loss, organisations should consider:
- The potential loss of productivity and associated costs
- Effects on customer service and revenue generation
- Implications for legal and financial obligations
- Damage to brand reputation
Risk Management Recommendations
Every organisation should establish:
- A risk management plan focusing on IT and data management, identifying critical data types and their relative importance.
- Procedures for handling events and incidents.
- Disaster recovery plans.
Key aspects of IT risk management include:
- Backing up data in multiple, independent locations using diverse technologies.
- Secure management of usernames and passwords.
PeopleTray offers tools for downloading data to spreadsheets, which should be stored securely. Backup and recovery processes must be documented, tested, and maintained by qualified personnel.
Risk management strategies related to your IT systems, including PeopleTray and its managed data, should be integrated into your overall risk management plans, covering incident management and disaster recovery. These systems should be developed, validated, and maintained by qualified individuals who can provide timely support when needed.