<p>The use of Outlook's PST data files have the potential to cause serious problems from data loss to compliance issues. PST files are Outlook data files that are sometimes used as a mechanism for message archiving or for avoiding mailbox quotas. Although PST files can be handy, it is best to avoid using them in your organization if possible. Here are ten reasons why.1. PST files are rarely backed up</p><p>PST files typically reside on workstation hard drives or on removable storage devices. In any case, the PST file is unlikely to be backed up because most administrators do not backup workstation hard drives. This of course can lead to data loss.2. There may be compliance issues</p><p>Every organization has sensitive data that they do not want leaked to the public. Sometimes this data is company confidential, and in other cases there may be regulatory issues describing the proper handling of the data. In either case, the use of PST files makes it far too easy for sensitive data to walk out the door.3. PST files are prone to corruption</p><p>One of the big problems with PST files is that they are prone to corruption. The original PST file format had a 2 GB size limit, and corruption would occur if the file grew beyond its limit. Modern PST files are less prone to corruption, but can still be problematic. This is especially true for PST files that are stored in locations where they might be accessed by more than one user at a time.4. They make e-discovery more difficult</p><p><a href="http://www.techrepublic.com/blog/10-things/10-reasons-to-avoid-using-pst-files/">Keep reading...</a></p>