The internet has completely revolutionized how people interact with each other. Whether you want to talk to friends half a world away or simply sell your old sofa, you can do that without leaving your house. However, this does not mean you have to do everything on your own. For example, there are many added benefits that you will only get from a DBA (database administrator) expert as expressed below. Also you will learn what you need to do before hiring anyone for the job.
What a DBA can do for you
Keep your website updated
The sole purpose of working with a DBA expert is to ensure all your databases are up-to-date and that your website is running as smoothly as possible. As you might already know, the key roles of a DBA expert will include the following:
- Backing up your website regularly. This ensures you get your website up as soon as possible in case of a crash.
- Updating your content and website tools. The expert plans for updates and insures the new updates don’t affect the database/website in a negative way.
- Helps with the rollout of new databases.
- Monitors your network and makes detailed reports for easy error management.
- Monitors system security.
- Liaises with third-parties to resolve hardware and software problems.
- Plans system storage
Simply put, the DBA expert manages your databases. He or she ensures your CMS has the latest updates and also helps with content creation and publishing.
Resolve problems in real time
System problems are common, and they have to be resolved as soon as possible to keep you from losing clients. DBA expert services are directed toward ensuring problems are identified in real time and resolved instantaneously.
Considering the DBA expert is the one constantly monitoring your website, there is no better person to resolve website/database problems than him or her.
Cut back on operating costs
The beauty of working with DBA experts is that you don’t necessarily have to hire an onsite team. As a matter of fact, most of the service providers are offsite; their work from their offices away from your business premises. You will not have to hire a team, invest in relevant resources or create space for your support team’s office.
Outsourcing to an offsite DBA ensures you only pay a single monthly fee for the services. With this option, you will further be guaranteed of greater technical knowledge because the service provider is part of an experienced technical team.
Help you focus on the core of your business
The services of DBA experts will go a long way in helping you focus on the core operations of your business. You will not be concerned with the smooth running of your website or the health of your databases.
How to choose the right DBA for you
There are many DBA firms you can hire from. One important fact you have to remember is that not every expert you come across will have your best interest at heart. This is why you need to learn how to choose the best team for the job. There are a number of steps you have to take.
1. Pre-pitch process
The first step you have to take is that of making a list of your objectives. What do you wish to accomplish at the end of the project?
The DBA agency will help with planning, but having a list of goals will give the two parties a great starting point.
The next step is to ask for recommendations from your network. Get recommendations from as many people as you can and make a list of the most promising agencies. Although it’s advisable to hire locally, you should not let geography limit you.
2. Qualify the agency
Now that you have a list of promising agencies, it’s time to narrow down the list. There are two key things you need to look for.
The first is the previous work and case studies of the agencies. Eliminate agencies that have not worked on projects similar to yours. If there are case studies available, check for the mention of return on investment as well as how the company works.
The second thing you must consider is the agency’s resources as well as its financial background.
If you are looking for full-service support, make sure the agency you consider has the skills and the resources to deliver what you are looking for and as effectively as possible.
Making the two considerations will point you in the right direction. Don’t just look at how many years the company has been in business; check out its track record.
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3. Develop relationships
To save time and money, conduct a “chemistry test.” This is a simple test to see if the team you are considering will be able to work on your project and if you will be able to relate to each other well. You can meet in the flesh or via video conferencing. Discuss your goals with the team, and pay attention to how they answer your questions.
Before pitching, you have to meet with at least three agencies. Understand how they work and make a list of their pros and con. This will help with cross-checking.
4. Ask them to pitch
After discussing your project needs, the right DBA agency will be able to pitch accordingly. Find out how the agency will approach your project and how much it will cost. The right agency to hire is the one that has done significant research into your project and that you are most comfortable working with.
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The work of the DBA agency is to manage the most sensitive part of your business. You need to make sure that the experts you hire for the job are trustworthy and have an attractive track record. Do not forget about your budget; never pay more than you can afford.
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Sujain Thomas is a data IT professional for Remotedba. Follow her on Twitteror connect with her on LinkedIn.