The path to improved business efficiency can take a variety of turns, but one that many organizations are exploring involves data center consolidation. Whether it’s integrating multiple data centers or integrating servers and applications, downsizing infrastructure offers several advantages.

Depending on the organization, a data center could be the most complex part of the IT architecture. Can data center consolidation take some of the complexity out of the situation? Companies that pursue data center consolidation found that applying efficiency principles can bring improvements to their overall IT systems.

There’s more than one way to consolidate, too. For example, some companies find it effective to choose server or storage virtualization, which involves taking a physical networking system and replacing it with logical access systems, or perhaps even a virtual network that utilizes software instead of hardware devices, such as bulky and expensive servers. Blade servers have also been effective in data center consolidation projects.

Timing the Transition

Is there an optimal time to consider consolidation? Because it’s a rather complex process, organizations are advised to include plenty of planning before beginning their initial steps. For example, what will become of the physical facilities post-consolidation? Will workflows alter due to the consolidation?

Planning for Success

It may be that your organization historically relied on virtual machine (VM) technology. New application architectures will allow you to step away from VM, which have an abundance of overhead and are difficult to distribute in an orderly fashion. For example, new applications like microservices are far more efficient than VM, which means you can implement more solutions that will facilitate data center consolidation.

Enjoy the Benefits

One of the perks of data center consolidation is that it gives you a clean slate for addressing cyber security matters. Companies that have consolidated say they are finding that security is less complex than having multiple disparate centers.

Another benefit is related to cost. With fewer sites, you have fewer management responsibilities and reduced utility expenditures related to cooling/running multiple data centers. You should see overall operating costs reduce substantially.

Outsource to a Professional

Independent Connections helps you reduce your day-to-day IT burden. If data center consolidation has you second-guessing your ability to take on so many IT tasks on your own, let Independent Connections take over. Our clients know they can trust us to see to many of their IT responsibilities and projects, so contact us and let’s discuss how we can address your needs.