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Key challenges

🎯 KEY CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS

Challenge 1: Running Out of Space ⚠️

Current state: 2TB RDS storage, generating large imaging data biweekly

Immediate Actions: 1. ✅ Compress old imaging data (300-500GB recovery) 2. ✅ Archive completed projects externally (200-300GB recovery) 3. ✅ Remove redundant processed files (100-200GB recovery) 4. ✅ Set up automated storage monitoring

Challenge 2: Backup/Redundancy 💾

Current state: No backup strategy
Target: 3-2-1 backup rule (3 copies, 2 media, 1 offsite)

Immediate Actions: 1. ✅ Identify key storage locations (OneDrive, RDS personal, RDS projects, external hardrives) 2. ✅ Create hierarchy of data storage for key datasets (confocal, flow cytometry, IMC, RNAseq, spatial transcriptomics) 4. ✅ Create disaster recovery protocol

Challenge 3: Lack of Organization 📁

Current state: Unclear where files should go
Target: Standardized directory structure with enforcement

Immediate Actions: 1. ✅ Deploy mandatory directory template 2. ✅ Create "Where does this go?" decision tree 3. ✅ Implement monthly organization compliance checks 4. ✅ Migrate existing data to new structure

Challenge 4: Clear Structure/Guidelines 📋

Current state: No documented protocols
Target: Simple, enforceable one-page guides

Immediate Actions: 1. ✅ Create quick-reference cards (starting project, saving data, monthly hygiene) 2. ✅ Establish mandatory naming conventions 3. ✅ Set up automated validation tools 4. ✅ Train all lab members (1-hour session)

🚨 IMPLEMENTATION CHECKLIST

Assessment & Quick Wins

  • Run storage audit (identify space hogs)
  • Audit external hard drive for backup space
  • Identify 3-5 completed projects (or personel) to archive
  • List all imaging data >1 year old

Space Recovery

  • Compress 5 largest old imaging datasets
  • Move completed projects to archive staging
  • Delete temporary analysis files from all projects

Backup Setup

  • Connect external HDD
  • Install backup automation scripts
  • Run first full backup
  • Verify backup integrity

Organization Rollout

  • Create directory template on RDS
  • Generate README and metadata templates
  • Print and post quick-reference cards
  • Schedule lab meeting for training