Metrofile selects Dell for secure storage management

Local document and data storage company Metrofile has acquired additional Dell equipment to further streamline its business processes. The latest purchase, to the value of R800 000, includes a PowerEdge 8450, two PowerEdge 660Fs as well as a PowerVault 130T-tape library.

Guy Kimble, Director at Metrofile, explains that the company provides a cost-effective and secure document and data storage facility that protects information from natural disasters, fire, burglary, sabotage and virus infections.

"We are currently handling the off-site storage and management of more than 2.5 million boxes nationwide - approximately 10 billion pieces of paper. Metrofile also adds roughly 45 000 new boxes to its storage facilities around the country each month, making this a large and intricate operation that demands reliable computing equipment," he says.

The company uses sophisticated data management and networking software to ensure clients have efficient and timeous access to files. Recent changes include the development and introduction of software systems, which enable clients to have direct access to the Metrofile warehouses through their own PCs and networks.

Kimble adds that the company is using Dell servers to administer its in-house warehouse operations databases. "We have been using Dell servers for the last couple of years and have found that they meet our requirements as well as being fairly priced."

According to Sean Wainer, enterprise product manager at Dell SA, Metrofile purchased its first PowerEdge server from Dell in December 2000, for use in its Johannesburg office. "They purchased a second PowerEdge 8450 for their Cape Town office in July 2001. Country-wide these systems are vital to Metrofile`s ability to service their clients."

"Dell offers value for money and its direct business model allows us to design systems to our requirements, instead of settling for standard machines. Clearly service is very important to us and we are confident that Dell can deliver the service standards we demand," concludes Kimble.