Data Center Relocation: From Server Room to New Horizons
Relocating a data centre can be a daunting task fraught with risk. There are many variables to consider and potential complications that can arise.
Taking a methodical approach to planning the relocation and identifying the potential upstream and downstream risks will be well worth the time invested.
Prior to putting the detailed plan together for the execution of the physical moves, the mitigation strategies need to be established from both a proactive and reactive perspective and incorporated into the plan as subset activities ready for execution including assigned resources.
All potential risks associated with the data center relocation must be considered and addressed within the context of the proposed approach. For example, it may be required Not moved with the equipment as is and ready for connection at the new site. Other types of equipment such as storage units will have to be removed from the source location and relocated with other dependent equipment concurrently.
It is also required to have the location of all equipment at the new site specifically mapped out well in advance of the physical relocation. To further complicate matters all changes prior to the move must be taken into consideration and included in the plans so that there is no business impacts.
Generally, the types of risks that must be considered are:
The planning of the relocation with risks identified and mitigated is the key to a successful move from one data centre to one or more others requires careful due diligence and attention to detail. Usually this requires guidance and oversight from a reliable and experienced partner who has a track record of successful data center relocations. Look for a partner with experience in handling complex data center moves.
Before moving your data center, test the new location thoroughly to ensure that it can support your organization's infrastructure and data needs. Conduct testing on network connectivity, power and cooling, and security protocols. Using a data centre digital twin model is most effective and can identify most issues prior to the physical relocation. Any issues realized from the digital twin can and should be rectified well before the move and the test rerun. It may be necessary to rework parts of the plan as a result of physical changes required to accommodate the IT equipment planned for the target data centres. This is significantly less expensive than having to make these changes post move.
Another important factor is to develop a communications plan. Remember to communicate with all stakeholders. Keep all stakeholders informed throughout the relocation process, including employees, customers, and vendors. Provide regular updates on the progress of the move and address any concerns or questions that arise.
We hope you found this article informative.
If additional information is required give us (Tri-Paragon Inc.) a call or email us at info@triparagon.com. We have extensive data centre relocation experience. Thanks for reading.