Writing Storage RFPs in 2011 (Fall 2011)

The data storage industry has changed dramatically over the past few years. The traditional Request for Proposal (RFP) does not address these changes or the challenges faced by IT organizations. Therefore, a new way of defining storage requirements to leverage this evolving technology is needed. This tutorial defines the “must-have” criteria that should be included in any data storage RFP in the current era. Performance, scalability, and resiliency are given; but new challenges will arise around server and desk top virtualization, power consumption, space requirements, and overall cost containment. Accommodations for developing technologies must be designed into the RFP. Attendees of this session will receive an RFP template designed specifically to take advantage of current storage and IT technologies

Learning Objectives

Learn which storage features are the most desirable in virtual server environments.
Learn how to write a storage-related RFP that delivers differentiated responses.
Learn new ways to approach and deal with preferred storage vendors.