The hardware is a common bottleneck in a database solution. Consequently, the hardware on which a database exists is one of the most important factors to consider when optimizing database performance. Decisions surrounding hardware scalability, tuning, and file layout are extremely important and should be researched prior to the installation of an OnBase database. An experienced Database Administrator, or an individual who is knowledgeable about hardware architecture as it relates to databases, should be consulted. It is also worthwhile to engage SAN administrators and/or infrastructure architects when designing and implementing the hardware and storage for an OnBase database.