Item: IBM Storage FlashSystem
Rating: 9
Author: Odysseas Basdekis

Use Cases and Deployment Scope

The IBM FlashSystem 500 (formerly Storwize V5000E) hosts the virtual disks of multiple VMs. The most important/critical of them are the CRM DB, ERP DB, and several applications servers. The plan is to migrate all VMs on the IBM system (some 400 VMs). It is used for the whole organization. Regarding the installation and configuration, it is one of the easiest we used so far.

Pros and Cons

It's fast
The support is phenomenal
Very easy to keep an eye on performance metrics, even remotely

It's a bit tricky to expand/add storage in the pools

Return on Investment

Most important positive impact is the performance.
The performance-to-cost and capacity-to-cost ratios makes it great for use as the main storage system.

Alternatives Considered

To be honest, this is not a very fair comparison. But the IBM is so much better in almost everything. If I have to mention one, I would choose the UI because it gives so much information, that's crucial for the systems engineer. And I have also to mention how easily the engineer can edit and configure the system

Likelihood to Recommend

I cannot think of something that the IBM FlashSystem 500 (formerly Storwize V5000E) is not suitable for. On the other hand, it's great for your first-in-line storage, since it also has the ability to manage your older storage systems (external storage connectivity). One of the most important features that the system offers is, of course, the replication. Easily as 1-2-3, you can replicate all your important systems and services to a remote site or a nearby center.

IBM FlashSystem 5000 saved the day!

Modules Used

Overall Satisfaction with IBM FlashSystem

Use Cases and Deployment Scope

Pros and Cons

Return on Investment

Alternatives Considered

Likelihood to Recommend

IBM Storage FlashSystem Feature Ratings