Backup & Disaster Recovery
Precision Opinion backs up on data and performs system maintenance on a constant basis. SQL Server data is backed up real-time while most network files can be restored from shadow copies. Backups are ran nightly from server disk to network disk, then to tape allowing us to backup large amounts of data in a short window of time. Servers are “snapshot” and imaged while network equipment configs are stored for quick recovery. Utilizing our robotic library, full backups are run on Fridays with differential backups through the following Friday. After backups are generated they are tested and verified for integrity. Precision Opinion also utilizes a retention policy for backups. Copies of monthly, quarterly, and annual backups are made and vaulted offsite.The Precision Opinion tape backup system is designed for disaster-recovery. In case of a server failure, or an omygosh moment ("I can't believe I deleted the whoooole thing"), files can be restored to where they were just before the disaster. It is not designed to serve as an archive for older and inactive files. Precision Opinion is designated and currently is a hot site back-up facility for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. By being a hot site back-up facility, Precision Opinion is powered up 24/7 with all of the systems, applications, and data needed to conduct government research that can operate 100% independently from the CDC infrastructure. Routine tests are performed to simulate these events and enforce that Precision Opinion continues to meet and comply with government standards. In addition, Precision Opinion has reciprocal agreements with multiple vendors to provide equipment, services, resources, and workspace in the event of an emergency.