Q:To ASM or Not to ASM

I've some questions on ASM (automatic storage management )  

I've read a lot of materials on this issue , I think ASM is a good concept in simplify the installation & maintenance of oracle database.  

I work in R&D in my organization , and we need to decided if to cooperate ASM instead of some other LVM.  

I build a small list of advantanges and disadvantages on ASM , and some questions . I would like to hear you comments .  

Advantanges:
1. Simply configuration and maintenance. (same layout ,with regard to O/S type . The only change is the numbers of disk per disk group) 2. Reduce extra level of LVM (reduce price , same vendor in all the stack ).
3. Performance (raw device access , striping in extent level )  

disadvantages:
1. New technology . Not wide speared , most IT doesn't have enough knowledge in this area.
2. Backup & recovery must be done using RMAN . 3. Single point of failure - If ASM instance is down ( , I'm not sure about this point).  

My questions are :
1. Do you think that ASM will be acceptable next year as LVM solution for oracle database in big companies ?
2. Do you think that ASM can be fine tuned as you can tune in a file base level installation ?  

Amihay Gonen
DBA  

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