In last week’s blog post we talked about three ways that DCIM can help with data center consolidation — from energy monitoring to asset tracking to proof of improvement. This week we look at three more.

What-If Capabilities

DCIM solutions also include the ability to run “What If” scenarios. To accomplish this, the user performs simulations to predict the results if certain equipment was taken offline or failed, or what would happen if an asset were to be deployed into a different place. “What If” scenarios help answer the difficult questions:

• Is there sufficient energy capacity to add more devices?
• Is there enough space for a new rack?
• Can the ambient temperature be safely raised?
• Is there a chain reaction if a particular device fails, and how would the rest of the power chain be affected?

Performing “What If” tests gives the user a heads-up before something irreversible happens, and lets them make changes to avoid disaster. In addition, these tests ease maintenance planning, and give the user an end-to-end view of the power chain.

Total Capacity vs. Actual Usage – Servers

It is vital not only to know what assets are doing now, but what they’re capable of. A DCIM solution shows the user not only present server load, but also how much capacity is left. Effective consolidation of devices can’t be accomplished without this capacity analysis.

Security

Of course with all the sensitive information involved with government data, security is going to be of the utmost importance. In this instance, the users will have to make sure that the DCIM solution they choose can’t be compromised. A great way to ensure that is to choose a solution that resides on the customer’s own network, and therefore shares its security.

Conclusion

Making federal data centers more efficient is a tremendous goal. There is plenty of room for improvement and literally billions of dollars-worth of potential savings. And with the help of a solid DCIM/DCSM solution, the goal is very attainable.