Many corporations and other large operations that previously would only consider owning and operating their own data centers are now considering moving at least parts of their enterprise into collocation sites. This major paradigm shift in strategy raises some very interesting new challenges. Entities that previously had direct control over every aspect of their critical operations must find new strategies for ensuring continuous operations for their corporate endusers.
Traditionally, most large enterprises constructed and operated purpose-built data center facilities based on specific needs and requirements. Site selection was influenced by proximity to other corporate locations, cost of utilities, broadband connectivity, and a host of other parameters. The design and engineering solutions employed reflected internal needs, preferences, and technologies that existing staff and management were most comfortable with. Decisions regarding the level of mechanical and electrical redundancies, capabilities to sustain critical operations during utility outages, and monitoring and control systems were often a balancing act between the best use of capital funds and providing the reliability and availability required by specific IT needs.