I don't think it takes quite as much effort as you imply, since a fairly basic storage array from one of the major vendors is $100k. (And then there's "maintena

I don't think it takes quite as much effort as you imply, since a fairly basic storage array from one of the major vendors is $100k. (And then there's "maintenance" and software upgrades, but that's a separate matter). Even if you got a $100/hr consultant, $100k would be half a year. I suggest it could be done in half that time, by someone who has suitable background. Someone with the specific expertise should be able to do it in 6 weeks elapsed and 2 weeks of full time work, tops. (bt; dt)