Item: Dropbox
Rating: 8
Author: Andy Norton

Overall Satisfaction with Dropbox

Use Cases and Deployment Scope

I use it to store archives of work done for past organisations, so that I can easily access them for future portfolio showcases. I also use for personal purposes as well, such as photos, and personal artwork, plus plenty of reference. I also use other platforms, such as Mega, GoogleDrive, and OneDrive to run frequent backups on my current and previous computers.

Pros and Cons

Pros

It is secure. I haven't had any breaches whilst using Dropbox.
Its search functions helps me find relevant files and images quickly.
It backups on a frequent basis that I can take it for granted that my files are being backed up.

Cons

I guess being constantly logging into Dropbox on other platforms, such as smartphones, can be an inconvenience.
Being able to search documents for certain text and phrases might make searching easy when you're unsure on the exact file name.
It does have a formal impression, such as OneDrive, that might appeal to professional users, but maybe not for casual users.

Return on Investment

It keeps a secure archive of my past projects
Because of how I backed up my previous computers, it has a strict selection of past content to access through Dropbox.
Its reliable reputations helps me with confidentially backing up my current computer and its files.

Usability

It does the basics, but in contrast to some of the most visually interesting backup platforms may look a bit basic in comparision, such as tagging familiar faces via Google Drive, or a quick visual reference of recent files on OneDrive, or its accessibility to various media on Mega. Its established reputation makes it a reliable service, and useful for other professionals to use, but may look as visually exciting as its competitors.

Alternatives Considered

Google Drive, MEGA and OneDrive

Its established reputation does mean it has become stuck in the past in contrast to other platforms, such as GoogleDrive, Mega, and OneDrive. Whilst it does have features like playing and viewing various medium, it does look a little clunky in contrast to its competitors. I have used Dropbox for many years, and will continue to use it for my personal archives and current backup systems on my current computer.

Key Insights

Do you think Dropbox delivers good value for the price?

Not sure

Are you happy with Dropbox's feature set?

Yes

Did Dropbox live up to sales and marketing promises?

I wasn't involved with the selection/purchase process

Did implementation of Dropbox go as expected?

Yes

Would you buy Dropbox again?

Yes

Other Software Used

OneDrive, MEGA, Google Drive

Likelihood to Recommend

I needed to find some past examples of work to go into my portfolio. So I used Dropbox, where I have backed up past projects, to help find my best work. I used the search feature to help find particular designs, such as past posters and flyers, to help me update and re-evaluate past pieces for my current portfolio.

Dropbox Feature Ratings

Comments

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Dated, but efficient.