04 April 2007

My last blog related to open source and shareware software used to edit web sites. The resultant data loss due to hackers exploiting security holes in the code base was devastating for hundreds of Melbourne based businesses. This has highlighted another critical issue, web database hosting.

How much is your database worth? Have you got 100, 1,000 or 10,000+ client contacts? When considering the right web hosted solution for your business you also need to consider your relationship with the hosting provider. In most countries there are privacy legislations that are designed to provide protection to the client information that you hold.

Ask yourself the following questions when considering saving $5 per month on web application hosting:

• Does the hosting provider provide regular database backups?
  
• If the hosting provider closes downs can you retrieve your information?
• Will the hosting provider access your private information and use it for their benefit?
• Will the hosting provider SPAM your clients or sell their email addresses?
• Can you get written guarantees that the hosting provider will return your information if they close or are taken over?

Businesses need to beware of their handling of client information and the true cost of being irresponsible. We see it everyday and think company's should be held more accountable for their client information.

•  Shah Raihan, 14 June, 2007 20:31

  Hi David, Quite an interesting and informative blog. My Name is SR Aziz and I represent and Indian Web Solutions Company. We are Microsoft Gold Certified and ISO Certified. We are looking for an Outsourcing Partner in Australia . I would like to discuss this business proposition with you over the phone. Please mail me at sr.aziz(at)yahoo.com if you are interested in knowing abt it. Ofcourse, after knowing abt the proposition you can decide to take it or pass it.