subject: Data Center Relocation And Accommodating Growth [print this page] When a company decides tocreate a data center, the first decision is whether to build or lease. If they choose to own, they will face much greater costs for maintenance and security. To build a new data center also requires a large amount of capital up front. It may cost a company $2,000 per square foot to construct a Tier 3 data center.
Owning vs. Leasing a Data Center
The option to own a new data center may give a business greater flexibility and control. However, it may also be too expensive to be a viable option. Few companies have the expertisein construction, design, operations and security required to build and maintain a quality data center. Leasing, on the other hand, also presents a variety of challenges.
Leasingis a very attractive option to many businesses whenthey analyze data center pricing. What many companies fail to realize is that data center relocation is not as simple as unplugging servers from data center A and plugging back in at data center B. There are a variety of assets and resources required in the process. Relocation is expensive, time-consuming, and risky if done improperly.
Leasing Options &Accommodating Growth
When leasing a data center, a long-term lease agreementis required.This will ensure stability in data center pricing. This is especially important for large companies with massive data centers.Any agreements should include extension provisions. They should also contain options for expansion taking into account future growth.
Ask the Right Questions
Whether a company decides to own or lease, they have to plan for unforeseen complications in their relocation. They have to be responsible for their current and future needs. They need to work and communicate with potential data center providers. At the minimum, companies should evaluate data center pricing with the following points in mind:
Initial and Future Capacity
Is there enough space to accommodate data needs? Where will data be housed at the start of the contract? Where will it be provisioned for anticipated future growth? How will future growth affect data center pricing?
Is there an appropriate amount of power and cooling? What are the costs of these services?
Facility Maintenance
Are all the sitecritical systems properly maintained? If requested, is there a way to audit records for systems such as generators and air handlers?
Is the maintenance staff outsourced or is it provided in-house? What are their training certifications and qualifications? What staffing or security charges are applicable to data center pricing?
Facility Verification
Are there any points of failure that have not been addressed by the company or the vendor?
Can the capacity of the facility be verified in terms of its redundancy, load, etc.?
