Choosing the Right Managed File Transfer (MFT)

Building on our previous blogs about Managed File Transfer (MFT), we now explore how to choose the right one for your business. An MFT is a secure file transfer service that enables organisations to send files safely and efficiently over the internet. Without MFT software, all data — including reports, patient/employee information, and contracts — are vulnerable to data breaches, manipulation and loss. This highlights the importance of selecting an appropriate MFT solution for your needs. If you're interested in learning more about the basics of MFTs or seeking a technical guide, please check out the other posts in our series.

Choosing the Right Managed File Transfer (MFT) Solution

An MFT can significantly boost an organisation's performance by ensuring that files and data are not only delivered securely, but also meet various regulatory requirements (listed below). With numerous options available, choosing the right one can be challenging. When selecting an MFT solution, consider the following factors:

1. Security
   

   Choose a solution that complies with relevant security standards and regulations. Consider the following factors:

   • Personal Information Protection and Electronic Document Act (PIPEDA)

   • Various Provincial Privacy Laws

   • Various Information Acts:
     • Ontario—Personal Health Protection Act (PHIPA)
     • Alberta—Health Information Act (HIA)
     • British Columbia—Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA) or Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA)
2. Scalability
   

   Choose a solution that can grow with your business, capable of handling increased data loads without performance issues. Look for flexible solutions that can handle increasing volumes of data transfers, more complex workflows, and a growing number of users without compromising performance.

3. Support & Maintenance
   

   Opt for vendors that offer comprehensive support and regular updates to keep the system secure and functioning optimally. Reliable vendor support is crucial for addressing any issues swiftly and minimizing downtime. Additionally, check the solution's reliability record; consistent uptime and positive customer feedback are good indicators of a dependable solution.

4. Integration
   

   Ensure the MFT can integrate smoothly with existing IT infrastructures and third-party applications. This includes compatibility with your operating systems, databases, and other critical applications like Client Relationship Management (CRM) systems. Integration ensures that data flows smoothly between systems without manual intervention, enhancing efficiency and reducing the risk of errors.

5. Usability
   

   While MFT solutions are inherently complex, the user interface doesn't have to be. A user-friendly interface with intuitive controls and clear dashboards can reduce training time and make it easier for your team to manage and monitor transfers effectively. This could mean a simplified dashboard with a visual overview of all ongoing and completed transfers, or well-organized navigational tabs that make it easy to locate specific functions and features.

Always remember that what may be great for one organisation, may not work for another. When looking for vendors, always check their reviews and ask questions!

Conclusion

Incorporating an MFT solution isn't just about transferring data; it's about transforming how your organisation handles information securely and efficiently. Choosing the right MFT solution requires a thoughtful assessment of your organisation's specific wants and needs, from security compliance to integration and user-friendliness. By carefully evaluating potential solutions against these criteria, you can ensure that your chosen MFT not only meets your current needs, but also supports your future growth and success. If you want to read more about Tracument's version of MFT, Secure Send, read our blog post which highlights the benefits and key features.