In this article we understand why it is important to set KPIs for any disaster recovery plan that you create for your SQL Server implementation.
There is a lot that goes into creating an efficient disaster recovery plan that is suitable for not only fighting all kinds of disasters, but is also able to recover multiple data forms. Although any organization would aim to create a plan suitable for all situations, the plan might not end up being as good as the organization would want it to be. Even though many organizations test the plans before an actual disaster strikes, things might not go as planned during a disaster. To avoid any kind of disappointment after executing the plan, users are recommended to make use of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) while drafting a plan.
Understanding KPIs
As the name suggests, KPIs are used for defining the goals and monitoring the efficiency of performance by evaluating the goals or set of goals achieved in the long run. Whether the performance was good, bad or average is decided on the basis of goals met and the targets set, using the given KPIs. There are two different types of KPIs.
- Outcome Indicators – This gives you a statement about all that ‘has happened’, an end result, in comparison to the benchmarks you had set. After the result is given, it is for you to decide and understand whether the performance was good, bad or average.
- Activity Indicators – The other type of KPI, this will give you information about ‘what is happening’. Unlike the outcome indicator, this focuses on the current performance, and gives a day – to – day report of the performance effectiveness. The report can help you figure out if the performance is going the way you want it to go or not, ‘what do you want to happen’. This can help you work out on the problematic areas, thus allowing a better performance.
Why Should an Organization use a KPI while Creating a Disaster Recovery Plan for SQL Server
SQL server is an application with a lot of potential, but we might not be able to use the application to the fullest simply by regular use. Through KPIs, we can set benchmarks for the kind of performance we wish to have while creating a disaster recovery plan. A lot of the things that should be taken care of by the disaster recovery plan, are possible due to use of KPIs. They not only guide you about how updated your plan is, but also enable creating multiple necessary inventories for comparison and research. One of the best ways to sharpen your disaster recovery plan for SQL data is to use KPIs which prepares you to deal with any incidents of SQL Server file corruption.
What happens if you Do Not use KPIs in SQL Server Disaster Recovery Plan
A lot of the things that should be in an ideal disaster recovery plan will not be accommodated if one does not opt for using KPIs. These indicators will not only allow you to compare performance by setting benchmarks, but also help you find out what are the problems with the current plan, which are restricting the organization from achieving the desired goals.
Author Introduction:
Victor Simon is a data recovery expert in DataNumen, Inc., which is the world leader in data recovery technologies, including repair mdb data and sql recovery software products. For more information visit www.datanumen.com
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