Information lifecycle and storage management is crucial for educational institutions as it helps ensure cost efficiency, security, and compliance. With the increasing volume of digital information due to hybrid learning, institutions face challenges in maintaining appropriate access and security. Effective management practices can reduce the risk of data breaches, as education is currently the most-targeted industry by cybercrime, with K-12 institutions experiencing over 80% of workplace malware attacks.

Institutions can optimize storage management by setting clear policies, managing user lifecycles, and utilizing appropriate storage solutions. For instance, Microsoft 365 is suitable for small, frequently accessed files, while Microsoft Azure is better for large datasets and archival needs. Additionally, implementing retention policies can help automate compliance and free up storage space by periodically deleting or archiving unnecessary files.

Educational institutions should consider using Microsoft 365 for small file storage and collaboration, as it supports frequent access needs. For larger datasets or archival purposes, Microsoft Azure is recommended, offering various access tiers such as hot, cool, and archive storage. This approach allows institutions to tailor their storage solutions based on the specific needs of teaching, research, and administrative information.