Framework for Deploying a Virtualized Computing Environment for Collaborative and Secure Data Analytics

Abstract

Introduction: Large amounts of health data generated by a wide range of health care applications across a variety of systems have the potential to offer valuable insight into populations and health care systems, but robust and secure computing and analytic systems are required to leverage this information.Framework: We discuss our experiences deploying a Secure Data Analysis Platform (SeDAP), and provide a framework to plan, build and deploy a virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) to enable innovation, collaboration and operate within academic funding structures. It outlines 6 core components: Security, Ease of Access, Performance, Cost, Tools, and Training.Conclusion: A platform like SeDAP is not simply successful through technical excellence and performance. Its adoption is dependent on a collaborative environment where researchers and users plan and evaluate the requirements of all aspects.