Let's say Tom Smith has launched a free service that involves storing user photo and video data but is struggling due to the overwhelming growth of data volumes. With only 2 gigs of purchased hosting, Tom's startup is on the brink of collapse.

So what can Tom  do if he doesn't have his own datacenter, investors, or personal savings left to invest in the startup? This situation may seem extreme, but it's not uncommon for startups that experience rapid growth without the infrastructure to support it.

In this scenario, Tom could potentially explore cloud computing solutions that offer scalable storage and computing resources without the need for physical infrastructure. He may also consider partnering with an established company that could provide the necessary infrastructure in exchange for a stake in the startup. Additionally, he could seek out funding from venture capitalists or angel investors to help fund the expansion of his startup.

One way to control the amount of information stored is by limiting the volume, quantity, and storage time. This can be implemented through different means, such as setting a maximum storage limit for free accounts (which may only require a fingerprint to access), like 10MB for up to 5 pieces of information downloaded within a week, after which the information is automatically deleted.

Limiting the amount of information that can be stored can be helpful in reducing clutter and promoting organization. As people accumulate more and more data, it becomes harder to manage and locate the information they need. By setting limits on both the volume and storage time, users are forced to prioritize and regularly clean up their accounts, leading to a more efficient and effective use of technology.

When it comes to the type of service provided, various strategies can be implemented. If the service at hand is centered around file sharing, one effective approach is to focus on file redundancy and implement methods such as hashing, which can help to eliminate repetitions.

Another useful tactic is to utilize already-established platforms like Dropbox, which can simplify the storage and access of data.

Lastly, it may be worth setting a limit for speed or volume in order to manage usage and ensure a more efficient system.

Numerous organizations offer complimentary energy for such purposes. Microsoft distributes Microsoft BizSpark certificates excessively. "Our Business Incubator is the future with us" also provides free VDS hosting to emerging businesses. It's highly probable that nearly all technoparks follow suit.

As a note, this kind of support for startups can be incredibly valuable in helping them take their first steps towards success in the industry.

Tom could also consider optimizing his service to reduce the storage requirements for each user. This could involve compressing photos and videos, implementing deduplication techniques, or encouraging users to delete older or less important content. By reducing the amount of data stored, Tom could potentially extend the life of his current hosting resources.

Furthermore, Tom could explore alternative revenue streams to generate income and fund the growth of his startup. This could include offering premium features or subscriptions to users who require more storage, or monetizing the user data in a privacy-respecting manner, such as through targeted advertising or data analytics.

Additionally, Tom could try to negotiate with his current hosting provider for increased resources or favorable payment terms that align with the company's growth trajectory.

Lastly, Tom could seek advice and guidance from industry professionals or join startup incubators and accelerators that can provide mentorship, connections, and potential funding opportunities. These organizations can assist in navigating the challenges of rapid growth and help Tom find solutions to sustain and scale his startup.

In addition to the previous suggestions, Tom could also consider implementing a tiered pricing model for his service. By offering different storage options at different price points, he can incentivize users to upgrade to higher plans that would generate more revenue for the startup.

Tom could also explore strategic partnerships or collaborations with other companies in the tech industry. For example, he could approach smartphone manufacturers, camera companies, or social media platforms to integrate his service into their products or platforms. This could provide a significant boost in user acquisition and potentially attract investors who see the potential value in such partnerships.

Another option for Tom is to leverage open-source software and infrastructure solutions. This could help reduce costs associated with licensing proprietary software and allow for more flexibility in scaling the service as needed.

Additionally, Tom could consider crowdfunding as a means to raise funds for his startup. Platforms like Kickstarter or Indiegogo can help him reach out to a wider audience and attract backers who believe in his service and want to support its growth.

Lastly, Tom should continuously analyze and optimize his business model, looking for ways to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and increase revenue. This might involve exploring avenues for monetization beyond storing user data, such as offering premium editing tools or partnering with printing services for photo book creation.

Overall, it's important for Tom to be resourceful, adapt to changing circumstances, and explore various avenues to ensure the survival and future growth of his startup.