Published: 28 March 2017
Summary
Third-party colocation facilities enable I&O leaders to increase data center space, minimize investment in on-premises data centers, and interconnect to digital business partners, cloud and service providers. I&O leaders must identify providers and facilities that align to their specific needs.
Included in Full Research
- Step 1: Clarify the Future Vision for Data Centers Within the Enterprise
- Step 2: Create a Data Center List and Timeline of Opportunities
- Step 3: Use Gartner's Colocation Selection Framework to Select Potential Suppliers
- Determine Your Use Case
- Verify and Project Basic Requirements for Power and Space
- Select an Acceptable Geographic Area for Colocation Facilities
- Match the Colocation Provider Type to Your Requirements for Scale, Network Diversity and Services Offered
- Determine the Appropriate Level of Resilience Required
- Explore How Space, Power and Cooling Density Requirements Are Addressed
- Examine the Full Range of Colocation Connectivity Options Available
- Ensure the Provider's Security Standards Meet or Exceed Enterprise Guidelines
- Determine What Remote Hands Can (and Cannot) Do to Support You
- Confirm Ongoing Supplier Management Activities
- Establish Provider Willingness and Flexibility to Support Emerging Strategies