Data center discussions inevitably come around to the issue of standards. And while I agree that standards, like the recently released SSAE 16, are good to consider when you’re data center shopping, you should never rely on a facility being “in compliance” as the exclusive determinate for your selection.
Standards should be the place where you begin your search. After you’ve checked off the boxes that ensure compliance with whatever standards your industry requires, dig a bit deeper.
For example, do you know how the power is delivered to the facility? Is it important not to be in a seismically active area or within range of a fault? What about a flood plain? And do you really need to pay that premium for a Tier 1 environment?
How much support will you need? Will you just be buying space or will you expect the data center to provide you with the skills and services you’ll require to populate your cabinets as well as manage power, deliver support, and maintain equipment?
It can be a bit of a jungle out there when it comes to acquiring data center space — there’s a lot to consider beyond standards. As always, my advice is to have chat with an experienced technology professional you trust. Learn more about Quest’s Data Center Services and solutions.
