Buying Guide: Managed File Transfer(MFT), Secure File Transfer Solution

What to look for when buying a Managed File Transfer (MFT) Solution

In order to be able to survive and thrive in the global marketplace, today’s dynamic enterprise must communicate and exchange knowledge with clients, suppliers, and partners around the world. But most existing large file transfer methods are fraught with problems, hassles, and limitations.

Which system will optimize your organization’s ability to exchange knowledge and data in a productive, secure, tightly managed and regulation compliant manner? Use these criteria to guide you through the decision-making process.

• Minimal Workflow Disruption

  Staff members shouldn’t have to drop everything just to send a large file. The ideal managed file transfer solution will mesh seamlessly with your existing workflows and procedures. Look for a system that offers one-touch file transfer capabilities that work within the tools and programs you already use, such as Outlook. It’s also important to consider the amount of training your team will need to get up and running with the new system. Choose a system whose interface that is self-explanatory, intuitive, and user-friendly -- that way, the initial learning curve will be limited.

• Advanced Security Measures

  Firms in many industries have found that standard methods of transferring large files offer little to nothing in the way of data security. For the best protection, choose a managed file transfer system that offers an array of powerful and flexible security options. By stacking security measures such as encryption, one-time passwords, and secure download links, you’ll be able to achieve the highest level of security possible. Additionally, if your firm does business in one or more sectors governed by data security regulations, take care to ensure that the managed file transfer system you choose offers options that will comply with all applicable rules.

• Powerful Management Capabilities

  Most standard file transfer methods are not equipped with a feature set that facilitates effective system management, oversight, and administration. Select a system that offers easy selection and modification of file transfer policies, permissions, limits, and rules. Also, check to make sure that the managed file transfer system you choose offers other management-friendly perks like custom reports and audit-trail capabilities.

• Platform Flexibility

  Some standard file transfer methods are limited by restrictive or exclusive platforms that can make it difficult to exchange data with external partners and clients, or with other systems. In order to maximize your firm’s reach, make sure that the managed file transfer system you choose is compatible with a broad range of common enterprise platforms. An Open API-enabled system will offer optimal flexibility, extensibility, and connectivity.

• Multi-Site Options for the Distributed Enterprise

  If your business operations are dispersed over multiple sites or if your firm works closely with external partners and clients, you need a managed file transfer system that isn’t limited by location. Therefore, you should choose a solution that allows for easy deployment across many different sites and locations. Additionally, if efficient collaboration between partner firms is a key objective, ensure that your chosen managed file transfer system allows for the simple and secure return of data from external partners.

• Ease of Deployment and Implementation

  The age-old adage “Time is money” is particularly apt in today’s hypercompetitive business environment. If the managed file transfer solution that you select requires a complex or time-intensive installation and deployment process, the disruption to your workflow could result in potentially detrimental downtime. To minimize this risk, choose a system that allows for rapid and simple installation and deployment with minimal workflow disruption.