Intelligent CIO Middle East Issue 31 | Page 68

CASE STUDY How has it allowed you to achieve an increased level of data availability? The solution provides quick access to legacy data backups, since the repository would no longer be based on tapes (once we complete full migration). Rapid recovery capabilities from the solution assure KFH of delivering information back to the business units as and when transactional level information is sought, either internally or externally (such as the Central Bank). The ability of accessing legacy backups of core and transactional systems quickly and reliably ensure that data is made available to the business on time and with accuracy. In what ways does it mean you can deliver a superior banking experience? The ability of accessing legacy backups of core and transactional systems quickly and reliably ensures that data is made available to the business units on time and with accuracy. Being able to address data extraction requests from business and by extension, requests from regulatory authorities, will ensure that KFH’s businesses are able to address customer requests (i.e. historical transaction reports for example), solve transactions disputes quicker and ensure industry compliance reliably. What was the problem with keeping data on backup tapes and why is the new system better? Tapes are magnetic in nature and degrade over time. Furthermore, regular use of tapes (even for test extractions) cause degradation and makes this media type least reliable in the context of criticality of data and the nature of the business. The new system is a disk based data repository for legacy backups. It is highly evolved and purpose- built to meet KFH’s demands on legacy data backup storage and rapid access. Recovery from tapes would take days or weeks, which can be done in minutes or hours in the new system. Additionally, tapes require safe and physical space that is expensive considering the number of tapes we have accumulated over the years. Why is it important for you to be able to offer real time data access and how does the solution let you achieve this? Real-time (and near real time) data access is a key business differentiator. It allows KFH to re-prioritise its essential resources, thus enabling us to sharpen our focus on customers and markets, and to address the risk mitigation process requirements much quicker and with greater simplicity. The new solution addresses the core issue i.e. petabytes of transactional (historical) data lying idle on tapes. Data extraction from legacy tapes forces KFH to use archaic methods and processes which are no longer aligned with KFH’s strategy to be a leading financial services provider in the countries it operates. What advantages does having around the clock availability bring to you? We are able to address regulatory data extraction requests from old backups; run tests and forecasts on historical data assets reliably and with predictability; address KFH’s data loss risk posture with regard to legacy data backups lying idle on tapes; put legacy data to use; and address customer transaction extraction requests in a timely manner and with ease. n KFH BENEFITS FROM RECOVERY WITHIN MINUTES OR HOURS INSTEAD OF DAYS OR WEEKS. 68 INTELLIGENTCIO www.intelligentcio.com