Data Center Optimization: How to Improve Data Center Efficiency

In a recent Uptime Institute survey, 54 percent of data center operators cited staffing as their biggest management and operational challenge. More than half (53 percent) said they struggled to find qualified candidates, while 42 percent said staff retention was an issue. Data center operators seem to be poaching each other’s staff — 60 percent of those concerned about retention said competitors were hiring their workers.

Staffing has been a problem for years. Industry-wide, there’s a large and growing tech talent gap that prevents many organizations from achieving their IT objectives. The data center segment is particularly hard hit as demand for capacity outpaces recruitment.

The staffing shortage isn’t going to end anytime soon, so data center operators must find ways to relieve the strain. Data center operators should be flexible in their hiring, with an emphasis on identifying transferable skills and implementing training and development programs. Increasing workforce diversity is another key step. Women represent just 8 percent of data center staff.

Greater efficiency can also help reduce staffing burdens. Here are some steps data center operators can take to optimize their environments.

How to Improve Data Center Efficiency

Data center optimization is a strategy for increasing efficiency. By optimizing the data center infrastructure and utilizing automation, data center operators can deliver IT services with less overhead and at a lower cost.

The Right Racks and Cabinets

Racks and cabinets may come in “standard” sizes, but there’s diversity in their features and functionality. High-quality cabinets ensure easy access to equipment and include cable management options to streamline maintenance and troubleshooting. Best-of-class cabinets can be configured in multiple ways to meet specific operational requirements. These features can shave precious minutes off routine, day-to-day tasks.

Optimized Resource Utilization

The resource utilization rate refers to the amount of IT equipment under full load. By optimizing resource utilization, data center operators strike an effective balance between equipment running at full capacity and maintaining enough resources to satisfy increasing demand. Data center staff are managing just enough resources to deliver IT services effectively without scrambling when demand peaks.

Remote Monitoring

Monitoring and measuring are critical tasks in the data center environment. However, the need to physically observe IT equipment and data center infrastructure drains resources that could be better utilized in other ways. Remote monitoring tools allow staff to collect metrics and identify problems from a central location.

Automated Management and DCIM

Data center automation eliminates the need for human operators to manage and execute routine processes. It improves operational efficiency by reducing the time required for routine tasks and workflows. Operators can use data center infrastructure management (DCIM) software to measure and manage the efficiency of the data center’s critical infrastructure, such as power and cooling systems. This software can help data center managers achieve maximum operating efficiency and prevent issues that could lead to downtime.

Additional Benefits of Increased Efficiency

In addition to reducing demands on data center staff, increased efficiency provides other key benefits.

Reduced Human Error

An efficient data center design allows for standardized, repeatable processes that reduce the risk of human error. Automation helps ensure that standards are always followed.

Improved Availability

Since human error is a leading cause of downtime, minimizing it helps improve availability. Additionally, increased efficiency helps data center staff to troubleshoot and resolve issues quickly.

More Time for Strategic Projects

Reducing time spent on routine workflows enables data center staff to plan and execute strategic projects. This helps enable innovation that further enhances the delivery of IT services.

Choose Enconnex for Efficiency

Enconnex has designed, engineered, and manufactured infrastructure solutions for some of the world’s largest data centers. We’ve taken solutions developed for the hyperscale environment and created a range of products for data centers of all sizes. These products are designed to optimize the data center infrastructure by maximizing efficiency and agility. Contact one of our specialists to discuss how Enconnex products fit into your optimization strategy.