A few months ago, Evaluator Group combined what was four data protection systems matrices (virtual, entry-level, midrange and high-end) into a single, overall matrix for our traditional data protection systems research. As data protection solutions have evolved over the years, we now find more similarities across an individual solution based on the size of the system than there are differences. The same applies to whether the solution is virtual or physical. The goal of the combination is to simplify product research across different solutions without first having to choose a product segment.
For any given vendor solution, the key differences between the product segments are still included in the overall matrix including the specific entries for the model numbers, capacity specifications and performance metrics for each segment. Together with the scale-out data protection systems research and matrix launched earlier this year, we now cover all previous data protection solutions and several new ones within these two research documents. As always, interactive versions of the data protection matrices are available to refine your research to a select number of vendors and capabilities that are important to you.
We are continuing to see many IT organizations in the process of re-evaluating their data protection environments or planning to do so in the near future. A recent survey of the Evaluator Group Visionaries panel indicated that 80% of respondents fit that description. We expect to see similar results from a more in-depth survey into near-term (next 24 months) data protection trends now underway. The reasons causing IT organizations to do a re-evaluation vary widely but are aligned with our previous comments on the market. The details will be in the final survey study which should be published in November.
Following the survey, we will be releasing on some additional data protection coverage for the end of the year. More on that later. As always, we are interested in your thoughts on the data protection market and solutions. Check out the latest information and let us know what you’re thinking.
