The colocation site selection process has evolved dramatically. Gone are the days when prospective clients only had to consider standard Tier III site criteria in addition to mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP). Today, the search for a colocation partner must move beyond the basics to investigate the issues that will affect client operations now as well as in the future.
There are three critical areas to consider when it comes to future-proofing your colocation site selection strategy: cloud access and internal cloud services, network options and internal services, and data center infrastructure management (DCIM)/building management systems (BMS)/managed services. Evaluating these criteria is essential for forging a partnership with a colocation operator that will accommodate the technology changes to come in the next three to five years. The best providers will offer cost-effective and transparent solutions in their facilities to help users operate more efficiently.