What is a recommended method for preparing and storing unstructured data like images and audio?

Storing unstructured data such as images and audio in Cloud Storage is a recommended method due to several key advantages. Cloud Storage is designed to handle large amounts of unstructured data efficiently, providing scalable, durable, and secure storage solutions. It allows for easy access and retrieval of data from anywhere through APIs, making it suitable for applications that require handling media files.

Unlike relational databases, which are optimized for structured data with defined schemas, Cloud Storage is more flexible and can accommodate various file types without imposing a structure on how the data must be organized. Moreover, local file systems can create challenges related to scalability, accessibility, and collaboration, especially when dealing with large files or when multiple users need to access the same data from different locations. Spreadsheets, while useful for organizing and presenting data, are not designed to store binary data like images or audio files effectively.

Overall, using Cloud Storage simplifies the management of unstructured data, ensuring efficient storage, readily available access, and the ability to scale as needs grow.