One way for IT managers to derive maximum value from their storage network is through policy-based, process-driven storage operations management software. Policy based software has been a staple in mainframe computing for many years but is relatively new in the open systems arena. The benefits of policy-based software include simplified management and increased stability of the network storage environment enabling the network to scale easily. The single sign-on and role based security substantially increases the integrity of the network.

This white paper details the use of automated, policy-based management in a Storage Operations Management (SOM) solution. A SOM solution includes a broad range of functions that enable administrators to actively manage and automate their entire storage network.