Multiple users, storage solutions, easy access – digital asset management (DAM) and cloud storage are essentially the same thing, right? While that is a common thought process, it’s actually far from the truth.
Although, they can both provide storage solutions for businesses, the fundamental functions of digital asset management (DAM) and cloud storage are different. Read on to find out how DAM goes beyond cloud storage…
In the digital age, the need for increased storage for businesses, personal accounts and institutions has become more and more apparent. There has been a large increase in the number of digital files held on our computers. And many of our devices simply aren’t built to support this large number of assets. That’s where cloud storage comes in.
Services like Dropbox and Google Drive are used to store a high number of files in the cloud, avoiding your hard drive from becoming overrun with documents. They also allow you to share access with various people, making it easier to collaborate on work and projects.
On the surface, DAM appears similar to cloud storage. They both allow users to store files externally, freeing up room on their device. They both also allow users to share access to files and collaborate on work. But there are some key differences.
Fundamentally, a DAM system puts you and your assets first, while a cloud storage platform is simply about storage.
A DAM system is a centralised repository to store all your assets, making it much easier to locate and retrieve files, thanks to the impressive metadata tags available. If you choose a cloud-based DAM system, all files are backed up to the cloud, similar to Dropbox or Google Drive, but are stored on advanced security platforms to protect your files long-term.
Most cloud storage systems do not back up your files for an extended period. In fact, deleted files are often erased permanently after 30-90 days. With a DAM system, on the other hand, multiple copies are made and backed up, so you don’t need to worry about losing accidently deleted files.
DAM systems also enhance the editing of files easily. Where with a cloud storage platform, you would have to manually edit to size or type of file if required, your DAM system can allow anyone to resize or convert a file to suit their needs, saving you time and money.
If you’re still finding yourself confused over which system is right for you, or just want some more information to present to your finance team, our experts are here to help. iBase has a comprehensive DAM system that can change the way you store and organise your files. Get in touch with us today to find out more.
