In the previous posts of this series, we explored the problems with document-based storage and how an object-based approach can be a game-changer for businesses. By now, you hopefully have a good understanding and appreciation for the benefits, efficiency, cost savings, better scalability, and smoother compliance.
But the next big question is: How do I get started? What are the concrete steps you can take to shift toward object-based storage, and how can you bring others in your organization along for the ride?
In this final part of the series (so far!), I’ll talk through the practical steps to implement this shift, as well as some resources you can use to drive this change. If you’re ready to move forward with an object-based approach, this blog will help you chart the course toward success.
The Yellow Brick Road: Building Your Path to Success
When thinking about the transition to an object-based storage system, imagine you’re walking down a yellow brick road toward a grand destination. Think of this as your ideal data management system. However, that road isn’t always a straight line, and it doesn’t have all the bricks laid out from the start.
In many organizations, each department is likely operating on its own, buying separate software solutions and creating isolated systems that don’t necessarily communicate with one another. It might seem like a random collection of cobblestones scattered across your path.
But here’s the key: be intentional about the software you choose and the way those systems will fit together over time. Even if you start small, each brick you lay should bring you closer to an integrated, enterprise-level solution.
You don’t need to build it all at once. The process can be slow and deliberate. By taking a thoughtful approach, you can grow at a pace that works for your organization, moving forward step by step toward a fully realized system. Each brick laid is a step toward making your business operations more seamless, scalable, and capable of handling the demands of today’s digital landscape.
1. What Are the First Steps?
The first step is to evaluate your current systems. What software solutions are you currently using? What works, and what doesn’t? Identify the pain points in your document-based approach, whether it’s inefficiency, lack of scalability, or difficulty with compliance tracking, and determine what kind of changes need to happen.
Start by identifying one system or department that could benefit most from an object-based approach. You don’t have to implement enterprise-wide change overnight. You can begin with one area—perhaps document storage, data management, or compliance-related files—and make that your first project.
2. Building Support Across the Organization
To successfully transition to an object-based storage system, you’ll need to get buy-in from key stakeholders in your organization. This is where the art of communication comes into play. Make sure to educate your team and leadership on the benefits of object-based storage: how it improves efficiency, reduces costs, and can scale as your business grows.
It’s important to frame this conversation around business goals. How will this shift benefit the company in the long run? Will it help meet regulatory compliance? Will it save time and money? Make sure your leadership sees the strategic value.
Once you’ve made the case internally, consider who will be the driving force behind this shift in your organization. Ideally, you want someone who has ownership over the project and can oversee the transition. This could be a department head, an IT manager, or a compliance officer—someone with the authority to make decisions and the knowledge to steer the change.
3. Research Software Options
Now that you have internal alignment, it’s time to evaluate the software options that can make the transition happen. The key to getting this right is to focus on solutions that integrate well with the tools you’re already using and are scalable as your business grows. Some software types to explore include:
- Product Lifecycle Management (PLM): A modern, adaptable system that connects people and processes across functional silos—including 3D designs, electronics, embedded software, documentation, and your bill of materials (BOM)—with a digital thread for innovation.
- Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP): A software system that helps organizations streamline their core business processes—including finance, HR, manufacturing, supply chain, sales, and procurement—with a unified view of activity and single source of truth.
- Compliance Tools: Given the complexities of regulatory requirements, make sure that the tools you choose can help you track compliance and create audit trails.
- Business Intelligence Software: Make sure your object storage solution integrates with data analytics and reporting systems, which can help you gain insights from your data.
Don’t worry about trying to buy everything all at once. Start with one or two solutions, and build upon them over time. Just make sure that whatever you choose supports your long-term vision and fits with your current business needs.
4. Get Expert Help if Needed
Transitioning from document-based storage to object-based storage can be complicated. If you’re feeling unsure about the best way forward, don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance. That’s where experts like myself come in.
I work with businesses like yours to help streamline the transition, recommend software solutions, and make the change as smooth as possible. Whether it’s advising on the best tools or managing the change across departments, having a strategic partner can help reduce the stress and complexity of the process.
5. Building for the Future: The Road Ahead
In the long term, the goal should be to integrate systems and create an ecosystem where your data is easily accessible, secure, and compliant. The flexibility of object-based storage allows for scalability and growth. As your business evolves, you won’t have to constantly worry about upgrading systems or dealing with data silos. Your organization will be able to pivot with ease and make the changes necessary to stay competitive in a fast-moving business environment.
Remember, you don’t have to do this all at once. The journey from document-based to object-based storage is a process. Start small, move deliberately, and build as you grow.
Let’s Get the Ball Rolling
Now that you have a sense of the steps involved, the next move is yours. Whether you’re ready to take action or you still have questions, I’m here to help. If you’d like to explore what object-based storage can do for your organization, get in touch with me. Together, we can make the transition seamless and set your business up for future success.
Take that first step, whether it’s evaluating your current systems or exploring new software solutions. Let’s keep moving forward.