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Summer 2024

This issue
Features
8 • Networking
GCX’s Jonathan Wright explores how modern networking
solutions can help the public sector scale.
10
10 • Emergency Lighting
Zumtobel Lighting’s Ed Haslett explains how centralised
lighting systems and proactive monitoring can enhance data 12 14
centre safety.

12 • Power
Conrad Energy’s Steven Hardman on why data centres
should look to on-site or near-site energy generation to ease
the energy burden.

14 • Sustainability
iomart’s David Gammie outlines some methods to improve the
sustainability and efficiency of today’s data centres.

16 • Cloud Computing
Six Degrees’ Reece Gohil gives insight into understanding the role
of hyperscale architecture in a hybrid cloud strategy.

18 • Heat Reuse
Mitsubishi Electric’s Shahid Rahman explores how heat reuse can
revolutionise data centre efficiency.

20 • Battery Power
EnerSys’ Michael Sagar explains how lead-acid batteries can
support the environmental goals of data centres.
16
22 • Data Management
Cloudera’s Paul Mackay shares how data is changing lives
across the globe.
20

Regulars
25 • Final Say
Pulsant’s Nav Uppal highlights the importance of taking a
people-centric approach to digital transformation.
Editor’s EDITOR
Kayleigh Hutchins
Comment kayleigh@datacentrereview.com

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
Jordan O’Brien
jordano@sjpbusinessmedia.com

DESIGN & DIGITAL PRODUCTION

Rob Castles
robc@sjpbusinessmedia.com

GROUP ACCOUNT DIRECTOR

Sunny Nehru
+44 (0) 207 062 2539
Keep those plates spinning sunnyn@sjpbusinessmedia.com
It’s been discussed at length, but it bears repeating – data is the
hottest commodity right now, and increased demand for it is BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
outpacing the capacity available.
Giants like Google and Microsoft – among others – have all
Tom Packham
+44 (0)7741 911 317
announced plans to develop new data centre sites across Europe, tomp@sjpbusinessmedia.com
and this is just the start. Growth is predicted to continue throughout
the year and into the future as technology such as AI and HPC GROUP COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR
become an increasing part of our lives.
So while the sector gears up to scale to meet this demand, it is of Fidi Neophytou
course facing increasing scrutiny to meet regulatory requirements, +44 (0) 7741 911302
fidin@sjpbusinessmedia.com
on everything from sustainability to data security.
Add to this the overwhelming demand on the grid – not just
from data centres – and the question of how we will power the PUBLISHER
next generation of facilities also rears its ugly head. The IEA has Wayne Darroch
predicted that electricity consumption from data centres, AI and
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CDU cooling at scale

L
nVent explains how iquid cooling does not need to need to have a plan in place to scale their
be all or nothing. Data centres cooling solutions. This may mean planning
equipping the right CDUs is
can consider cooling a single next generation data centres to be fully liquid
vital in powering the next rack or a small set of racks where cooled, or exploring hybrid liquid to air
generation liquid cooling that AI and machine learning applications are solutions, such as rear door cooling or direct-
will be the backbone of the housed without deploying full scale data halls to-chip CDUs, that bring liquid cooling to
that are liquid cooled and support rack after the rack and chip level while operating within
data centres of the future.
rack of equipment running high performance air-cooled infrastructure.
computing solutions. The biggest advantage that planning for
However, when implementing these spot the future and understanding IT workloads
solutions, understanding future business plans will bring is the realisation that almost all
is critical. Using dedicated cooling solutions to potential cooling solutions can be built out in
solve a unique problem is important, but due combinations, allowing data centre managers to
to cost, energy efficiency and other factors, match their power and cooling capabilities with
a solution for one problem may not be the shifting demands. The key to sustainable growth
solution for another. As with all data centre is a variety of flexible options for supporting
projects, different challenges require different the next-generation equipment. Liquid cooling
solutions, and a one-size-fits-all approach technologies help drive that flexibility.
rarely succeeds.
With the growth in demand for high Unpacking CDU motors: It’s not just
performance computing (HPC) driven by about redundancy
the expansion of AI, data centre managers Liquid cooling is here. Next-generation chips

6 www.datacentrereview.com Summer 2024

 SPONSORED FEATURE

and other AI infrastructure need more efficient at lower capacity. Additionally, VSDs can additional diaphragm or bladder expansion
cooling methods to keep them from overheating. introduce harmonic distortion into systems tanks. To compensate for this, CDUs with VSD
Today, many data centres implement solutions that affect power quality for cooling systems. controlled motors often have additional pumps
that remove extra heat by increasing air volume They can also overheat when operating at added not just for redundancy but to ensure
or reducing air inlet temperatures, which can be reduced speeds, which can necessitate extensive that cooling demands are met over a wide
inefficient and costly to run. When air cooling maintenance and potential down time. liquid flow operating range. Operating more
systems must work harder to maintain optimal For these reasons, data centres that require pumps than necessary, in many cases, leads to
temperatures, facilities can also face equipment constant uptime should consider CDUs with inefficiency in power consumption
breakdowns, unexpected shutdowns and VFD motors. Data centre managers also need and increases the overall failure domain of
increased energy costs. to ensure their CDU motors are concurrently the solution.
For many data centres, using liquid cooling maintainable, meaning they can be replaced In addition to the motor type, data centre
technologies can offer better performance while without the CDU going offline and interrupting managers should look at the coupling methods
reducing energy use and helping data centres the liquid flow to the IT equipment. While within CDU pumps. Magnetically coupled
operate more efficiently. For the most advanced redundancy is always important for CDU pumps with VFD motors are extremely unlikely
applications, liquid cooling is the only possible motors, the reliability of VFD motors means to leak and are very reliable, minimising the
option. By using liquid cooling technologies in that fewer redundancies might be necessary for need for multiple redundancies and lowering
the right way, data centre managers can greatly VFDs than VSDs. energy use. When pumps are magnetically
improve Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE), coupled, as opposed to mechanically sealed,
even in applications where they are using next- More is not always more components can be physically separated,
generation IT. While data centres require 24/7 uptime, adding minimising mechanical vibrations and
A critical part of any liquid cooling system multiple redundant motors can add failure preventing wear and tear. Additionally, the
is the coolant distribution unit, or CDU. The points to a cooling system and running many separation between the drive shaft and pump
CDU acts as the ‘heart’ of the liquid cooling pumps simultaneously hurts the partial PUE components allows for a completely sealed
system, pumping cooled fluid through racks at of the system. An alternative approach is to enclosure on the pump’s liquid end. This
an appropriate rate for the cooling needs of the have one pump that can do all the cooling removes another potential failure point by
system. CDUs need to dynamically respond to and one backup to pick up slack in case of eliminating the need for a mechanical seal
the cooling needs of IT by changing the rate at maintenance issues. between the motor drive shaft and liquid-
which fluid flows through the system. Both VFDs and VSDs allow for varying carrying components.
However, there are a few methods of flow rates of a pump – but with VSD control, Equipping a data centre with the right
controlling CDU pumps. Each method has pump voltage is cycled rapidly to get the CDUs to power next generation liquid cooling
benefits and drawbacks. desired speed. This can create large current is critical to the functioning of future data
spikes affecting system power quality and, in centres. Examining motor control and coupling
Powering the data centre’s heart some cases, can create large fluctuations in methods for CDU pumps is just one piece in
There are two main types of drives used in liquid pressure that need to be managed with a complicated equation, but it should not be
CDU pump motors: variable speed drives ignored, because when the liquid stops flowing,
(VSDs) and variable frequency drives the IT equipment shuts down.
(VFDs). Both adjust the speed that motors
run to respond to the cooling demands of IT
systems, circulating liquid through the system
at different rates. However, there is a key
difference between them.
VSDs manage motor velocity using amperage
and voltage, supplying less net input voltage
when the motor doesn’t need to run as fast.
This is achieved by rapidly cycling the pump
on and off to achieve the desired pump speed.
VFDs present an interesting alternative to this
method, using voltage and frequency instead
of amperage to control the motor’s operation.
Using voltage and frequency together allows
greater control over a motor’s speed and torque,
helping motors last longer while minimising
energy waste.
VFDs also work better and retain efficiency
better than VSDs when motors are running

Summer 2024 www.datacentrereview.com 7

Scaling the T
he public sector has been slow to meet the demands of
digital transformation. According to the National Audit

public sector
Office, outdated IT systems and ageing data are key
sources of inefficiency in public services. As the volume of

securely
available data continues to grow, along with the number of applications for
which its analysis can prove valuable, the public sector needs to adopt the
latest advancements in network overlay technologies to scale securely.

Changing conditions
In the public, as in the private sector, data is the lifeblood of the modern
workplace. Combining self-created data sets with external data can
enhance the output of data analytics, helping public sector agencies
Jonathan Wright, simplify processes, such as reducing hospital waiting times, optimising the
Director of Products timing of public works, and changing the routes of refuse lorries. Firstly,
and Operations at GCX, that data must be collected – whether that’s directly from existing systems
or by remote IoT sensors – and sent, via Wi-Fi, to a building collector,
explores how modern
before moving over a network connection to a data lake from where it can
networking solutions be analysed to provide the necessary valuable insights.
can help the public It goes without saying, of course, that the quality of that connection is
sector scale. critical. Carrier networks have improved over the years. Advancements in
software-defined networking, for instance, have made network solutions
easier to deploy and use alongside underlying technologies such as
broadband, fibre and 4G. Combining cheap network bandwidth and high-
capacity delivery options like 5G with new security protocols means public
sector technology solutions can scale rapidly for new sites, services and users.
At the same time, the growing migration of applications to the cloud
has seen increased levels of SD-WAN adoption, as organisations look for
ways to strengthen connectivity, reduce costs, and gain greater control
and visibility of their networks. However, the growing use of IoT sensors
and the shift to hybrid and remote working practices means that SD-
WAN is no longer suitable for the flexible models sought by public sector
organisations today.

8 www.datacentrereview.com Summer 2024

 NETWORKING

Overlaying SD-WAN by providing end-to-end protection, making it equally as effective as

Originally tasked with optimising application traffic for a better user enforcing security on remote endpoints as it is on office-based devices.
experience, SD-WAN is primarily an on-premises network access
technology – and so, at odds with today’s ways of working. Not only is Single stack
SD-WAN unable to scale (although it may have been considered secure With enhanced security – on every device, regardless of its location –
for use by office-based businesses) it also fails to provide consistent and with improved visibility over network performance, SASE solutions
security for employees using external devices or working from remote allow public sector organisations to enjoy greater flexibility, and scale
locations, and also for the important IoT sensors used to collect data. to meet the growing demands on their networks. But these aren’t the
Its authentication process means networks that rely on SD-WAN will only benefits they represent. By merging network and cybersecurity
have limited visibility over subscribers’ traffic and behaviour, hampering solutions into a single, more controllable stack, they help ensure that an
an organisation’s ability to detect threats. Each device added to the organisation’s network budget is more accurately spent.
network represents another entry point that could be exploited by cyber- It’s true that many network solutions already deliver cybersecurity
criminals. In today’s increasingly sophisticated threat landscape, this solutions as part of a single stack. But, while they can offer best-in-class
simply isn’t sufficient. security solutions such as DLP, Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)
Many organisations have invested a great deal of money in SD-WAN, and Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), they are
though, and will therefore be reluctant to abandon it. The good news is rarely managed effectively. Sensible integration is required to avoid the
that, by implementing new overlay technologies like Secure Access Service possibility of gaps in vulnerabilities. A single stack, such as that enabled
Edge (SASE) over their existing SD-WAN infrastructure, they don’t have to. by SASE, which is more focused on holistic management of a network
With stronger security features including Data Loss Prevention (DLP), and its security alike, will help organisations save money while gaining
a cloud-centric security framework like SASE builds on SD-WAN better control of their IT estates.
The public sector is not immune from the need for digital
transformation. The collection and analysis of a wide range of data,
The growing use of IoT from various sources, is essential for the insights needed to deliver

sensors and the shift to hybrid new and improved services. SD-WAN is an innovative solution for
optimising application traffic, but the fact that it remains on-premises
and remote working practices means it is no longer enough to meet network and security management
means that SD-WAN is no demands. Especially for the needs of today’s data-hungry public sector

longer suitable for the flexible organisations on the move.

The security, flexibility, and network visibility of newer overlay
models sought by public sector technologies like SASE mean the public sector can continue to deliver
organisations today services – securely and cost-effectively – and meet the demands of an
increasingly digital future for all.

Summer 2024 www.datacentrereview.com 9

LIGHTING
THE WAY
for safer
data centres
Ed Haslett, Divisional Director case temperature of the emergency kit itself and the tested operating
temperature within a luminaire.
– Critical Facilities UK & Ireland
The elevated ambient temperatures pose a significant challenge for
at Zumtobel Lighting, explains the integral batteries within emergency luminaires. Ta, or ambient
how centralised lighting systems temperature, is a critical factor influencing the performance of emergency
and proactive monitoring can lighting systems. In the confined spaces of a luminaire, the Ta inside the
fitting is affected by various heat sources, including the driver, emergency
enhance reliability, safety, converter, charging batteries, and the LED board. As data centres
and operational efficiency in experience rising temperatures, the Ta inside luminaires can escalate
data centres. rapidly, surpassing the operational limits of integral battery systems.

Addressing temperature challenges

W
hen standard lighting fails, emergency lighting is a lifeline This rise in temperature within emergency luminaires can lead to
which provides sufficient illumination to allow orientation, premature failure, particularly in instances where manufacturers
and efficiently light an escape route, preventing panic state higher operating temperatures that do not align with the real-
and ensuring that other safety equipment can be found world conditions of data centres. Early failures not only compromise
immediately. the effectiveness of emergency lighting, but also result in frequent
But what happens when the emergency lighting fails? And what might replacements, placing demands on time and budgets while introducing
be the cause? unwanted disruptions and traffic in high-security areas. Addressing the
The activation of emergency lighting is designed to occur on failure temperature challenges with a centralised emergency lighting system
of the electricity supply, when the batteries take over. Most emergency eliminates the reliance on integral batteries and ensures consistent
lighting systems are designed to have one-, two- or eight-hours’ worth of operation, even in the extreme conditions prevalent in data centres.
duration. When it comes to human life, fail-safe performance is essential. Which
In the demanding environment of data centres, ambient temperatures means safety lighting must work at all times while complying with the
in hot aisles often range from 35-45°C. Here, the operational limitations relevant standards.
of integral battery emergency luminaires become evident. The specified The aim: to ensure long-term, fault-free operation with minimum
operating temperatures for many of these conventional emergency maintenance.
luminaires typically cap at 25-30°C, highlighting a substantial A best practice design comprising LED lighting technology, an
performance gap. Manufacturers may sometimes indicate higher intelligent lighting control system and a central power system (CPS)
operating temperatures, but it is crucial to distinguish between the to support a dedicated emergency lighting system will have a positive

10 www.datacentrereview.com Summer 2024

 EMERGENCY LIGHTING

ownership is therefore improved.

For lighting controls, a strategy of absence/presence detection, such
as DALI2 microwave sensors, can offer control in every aisle and should
be installed at each end of the aisle, facing outwards from the middle to
ensure coverage as necessary.

Cold aisles
For ease of installation and maintenance, consider using the same
luminaire system. Both Microwave and PIR DALI 2 sensors should
be considered with a manual override located at the local entrance of
relevant aisles.

Circulation
We would recommend the same luminaire system in these areas for ease
of installation and maintenance, again with a dedicated luminaire type
and output to best facilitate the most efficient design to meet criteria.
Emergency lighting should also be based on the same principle as the
aisles, including absence/presence DALI2 sensor control with a manual
override located at each entrance for timed switch for lighting control of
the area, with the addition of exit legends installed on a track system or an
adjacent wall to be fed from the central battery system.

CRAH aisles
CRAH aisles are often designed to mimic cold (under 35°C) or hot aisle
(over 35°C) lighting strategies.
impact on energy usage. In addition, it will reduce associated manual
maintenance costs whilst creating a safer, more flexible lighting solution MMR/Unboxing rooms
that can be quickly and easily adapted to suit changing requirements. Beyond the physical infrastructure, proactive monitoring of emergency
Emergency central battery systems using dedicated emergency luminaires plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal performance and
luminaires can not only reduce emergency lighting loads but the amount reducing maintenance burdens. Intelligent monitoring systems contin-
of emergency lighting circuits too. This leads to a more cost-effective uously assess the health and status of emergency luminaires, alerting
initial installation and an easier system to maintain long-term. As a operators to any potential issues before they escalate into full failures. This
general rule of thumb, once more than 120 emergency luminaires are proactive approach minimises downtime and maximises the lifecycle of
present on a project, the DC central battery system often pays for itself. emergency lighting systems, reducing the workload for site operators and
When it comes to best practice, we recommend designing your lighting facilities teams.
strategy specific to the specialist areas, dependent on the cooling topology
used within the space: Safety first
The final part of a lighting strategy concerns life safety. Data centres
Hot aisles present a unique set of challenges in this area, so it is advisable to have
Any data hall with a technical area operating temperature above 35°C a dedicated, addressable emergency lighting system that allows for full
should use a Ta 45 rated lighting system to illuminate the areas of automation of testing – excluding an annual duration test.
operation efficiently. Cutting edge technology can automatically report the status of an
Dedicated emergency luminaires should be located remotely in a emergency lighting system. As the batteries have a 10-year life expectancy,
suitably temperature-controlled area to avoid temperature-related battery the potential for human error is reduced and the costs associated with
degradation. These should be fed from a central battery system. By routine maintenance are lowered. Utilising a remote CPS/eBox-based
removing the batteries from the hot areas, maintenance and total cost of system also facilitates the support of higher ambient temperatures, as
there is no need for a local battery supply to the emergency lighting, while
a self-contained system can be easily extended with additional luminaires
Elevated ambient as required. When considering a system, always remember that robustness

temperatures pose a is required, aesthetically pleasing is optional.

By implementing centralised emergency lighting supply systems and
significant challenge for proactive monitoring, data centres can achieve enhanced reliability, safety,
the integral batteries within and operational efficiency. This combination ensures that emergency

emergency luminaires lighting systems remain operational even in challenging environments,

providing a critical safety net for personnel and infrastructure.

Summer 2024 www.datacentrereview.com 11

Reaping the I
nvesting in on-site or near-site energy generation,
otherwise known as ‘behind the meter’ energy, offers
several benefits for energy-intensive businesses such as

benefits of
data centres. In fact, it is sites like data centres, which rely
heavily on high energy usage to operate, that have the most to gain from
on-site and near-site energy generation, because the overall performance,

‘BEHIND
and indeed the profit margins, of these facilities are more vulnerable than
most to fluctuations in energy prices.
A key advantage of behind the meter energy is the long-term

THE METER’
cost savings. The initial investment cost isn’t insignificant, but it is
overshadowed by the lower costs of energy generated on- or near-site
compared with the cost of relying exclusively on grid energy.

energy
With the market still prone to volatility, behind the meter energy
also offers greater resilience and certainty on energy costs. Further
gains can be made by selling surplus energy back to the grid, and by
potential tax reliefs on offer for businesses investing in renewable energy.
As technology improves and renewable energy systems become more
affordable, the return on investment will only grow.

Steven Hardman, Weighing the benefits

CEO, Conrad Energy, Businesses may choose to consider fully funded on-site generation plans
explains why data available from some energy companies. These eliminate CAPEX costs,
with the energy provider assuming responsibility for funding the build
centres should look
and maintaining the project. In return, the property owner signs a Power
to on-site or near-site Purchase Agreement (PPA), buying the energy produced over the long-
energy generation to term at a pre-agreed rate – saving money and providing price stability.
ease the energy burden. Another valuable benefit of on-site energy generation is independence
and self-sufficiency. Using renewable energy generated by solar panels or
wind turbines minimises dependence on third-party energy providers
– protecting businesses from spiking utility prices and a fluctuating
national grid supply. This, in turn, brings consistency of operating costs,
bolstering financial resilience.

12 www.datacentrereview.com Summer 2024

 POWER

Using renewable energy

generated by solar panels or wind
turbines minimises dependence
on third-party energy providers

the meter energy solutions, businesses can alleviate this burden on the
grid and help create a more stable and sustainable energy ecosystem.

Setting up behind the meter energy generation

To tackle their carbon footprints, data centres typically buy PPA
agreements for renewable energy – with only a few choosing to generate
their own on-site power using renewables (or gas). But both approaches
can be used by data centres and incorporated into a wide range of
business models.
Different businesses will of course have different concerns regarding,
for instance, carbon footprints, budgets, and space capacity. Accordingly,
there is no single blanket solution for implementing on-site energy
Businesses can also optimise energy consumption and reduce costs. By generation – with strategies varying across sites and industries. This
generating electricity on-site and exploiting energy management systems, adaptability means individual data centres should be able to design a
when and how energy is used can be managed more effectively, reducing path of action that is tailored to their needs.
peak demand charges and maximising energy efficiency. That said, there are some elements of best practice that will apply
Generating energy on-site also provides data centres with greater across the board. Firstly, businesses should consult an energy expert to
flexibility and self-sufficiency in keeping track of their energy needs. By assess their energy requirements and consumption habits, and in turn to
utilising renewable energy sources alongside energy storage systems, draw up an appropriate on-site energy generation strategy. Factors such
companies can save surplus energy generated during periods of low as geography, available space, energy needs, and financial constraints will
demand. This independence of operation creates an important security all affect the choice of renewable energy technologies, for example solar
buffer and increases the reliability of operations. photovoltaic (PV) systems, wind turbines, fuel cells or combined heat
Behind the meter energy also supports sustainability and net zero and power (CHP) systems.
targets, an increasingly important concern. Using clean, renewable Another important factor is the many budgetary implications
energy sources minimises a company’s environmental impact and can of energy investments – for instance initial CAPEX costs, ongoing
also boost their reputation as responsible corporate citizens. maintenance fees, and potential savings and revenue sources. A thorough
financial analysis, including ROI calculations and cash flow predictions,
Decreasing dependence on the local grid will help companies make substantiated decisions and secure funding
The grid is an essential part of our energy infrastructure, but it is not for their energy projects. Using energy companies which offer fully
invulnerable. From cyber threats to equipment malfunctions or extreme funded installations is one way to minimise CAPEX outlay whilst
weather events, the grid can be disrupted with potentially wide-ranging enabling businesses to reap the wider benefits of on- or near-site energy
consequences. As a result of this, minimising dependence on the local generation.
grid is not only a convenient move, but a strategic necessity to guarantee Finally, it is vital to consider the local regulatory landscape and
business resilience and autonomy. policies in a given region. With councils increasingly conscious of net
On- or near-site solutions provide security for businesses, providing zero targets, it is important to look at what support is available for
them with the means to combat the risks of grid outages and supply chain companies investing in renewable energy generation and storage – as this
disruption. A decentralised strategy also improves the wider stability and can provide vital help in implementing on- and off-site generation.
reliability of our energy infrastructure, minimising the chance of wide- Behind the meter energy offers several significant rewards for
reaching blackouts and reducing the financial implications of energy- businesses, ranging from minimising dependence on the local grid
related disruptions. to providing a means to unleash hidden value from energy assets,
Lessening reliance on the grid can also ease the strain on infrastructure in addition to stabilising and adding certainty to energy usage and
and help reduce the need for expensive upgrades and developments. planning. If businesses curate an effective solution bespoke to their
With demand for electricity ever increasing, the current grid requirements and criteria, they will improve their self-sufficiency,
infrastructure is being stretched to its limits especially in urban centres green credentials, and position in the market against an increasingly
and areas undergoing rapid population growth. By investing in behind unpredictable backdrop.

Summer 2024 www.datacentrereview.com 13

How to prioritise
sustainable operations
Making data centres more sustainable
David Gammie,
Organisations need to make sustainability a more embedded and
CTO at iomart, higher profile criteria for key decisions on how data centres are built
outlines some and populated; they need to be sustainable by design. Increasingly,
methods to improve organisations also need to plan for the rapidly changing weather patterns.
In order to ensure efficient and sustainable operations within their
the sustainability and
data centres, IT and I&O leaders should use real-time and predictive
efficiency of today’s analytics in order to maximise the life cycle of their data centre assets and
data centres. not prematurely replace infrastructure, such as cooling systems, back-up
generators or power supplies.
One big change data centre operators can make is switching to

D
ata centres are incredibly energy intensive systems. In fact, renewable energy. Wind and solar power is already growing in popularity
they are estimated to be responsible for up to 3% of global around the world, particularly for data centres. In fact, many operators
electricity consumption today, and are projected to increase are combining energy storage systems with their renewable energy
to 4% by 2030. We live in a world where everything is now systems in order to ensure a flow of constant power and ensuring servers
stored digitally and with the UK’s net zero goals, it’s vital that organisations maintain their uptime.
seek out innovative ways to reduce energy consumption of that data Organisations could also choose to invest in GHG emission offsetting
processing/storage and work to be more sustainable. programmes, which include recycling materials to extend their lifespan,
Every business uses and stores data to perform business processes and refurbishing and recovering valuable and environmentally sensitive
provide management information. As such, data centres are a crucial materials, and implementing a circular economy programme to scale
part of daily operations within an organisation. Unfortunately, however, back e-waste.
data centre sustainability remains a challenge, particularly when it comes Water also plays an especially big part in data centres, as it’s used
to the cloud industry. Operators must balance sustainability goals and for cooling. As such, organisations should consider using water usage
meeting net-zero targets with the continuous, fast-paced digitisation – effectiveness (WUE) in order to track all sources of water, as well as
which is no easy feat. using grey water sources, such as seawater, recycled water or rainwater
While the adoption of AI and IoT devices has increased the demand collection systems, instead of potable mains.
on data centre infrastructure, which needs additional power, the new Another step that can be taken is looking to take advantage of
technologies can also help IT leaders streamline their operations. colocation options. This can help organisations reduce or close any
Ultimately, understanding how to utilise these new solutions to boost internal data centres that aren’t being utilised to their full extent, or those
productivity within data centres will translate to lower emissions, as that are located in areas where renewable or ‘greener’ energy isn’t as
operators will be able to filter out redundant applications and processes accessible.
and improve overall efficiency. Additionally, Gartner recommends that leaders establish their IT

14 www.datacentrereview.com Summer 2024

 SUSTAINABILITY

sustainability goals and measure their progress in order to track the businesses do more with their data, such as integrating AI and machine
reduction of their emissions and the progress they’re making. This way learning for automation and wider benefits.
they can better understand whether their approach is working, or they
need to change up their methods. Integrating AI into data centre operations
In order to remain competitive and streamline processes, organisations
Optimising at the migration stage can integrate AI and machine learning (ML) into their technologies. In
While cloud providers themselves are responsible for their own doing so, they can create an autonomous data centre that optimises and
emissions, there’s a core change that needs to happen with how solutions performs data engineering tasks without human intervention.
are deployed, designed, and retired within organisations if not in use. Outages are also becoming more frequent and costing data centres
This can include optimising software development and the processing to significant downtime and funds, in addition to wider business and brand
make it as efficient as possible and appropriately managing infrastructure impact. Using AI to automate certain processes, IT leaders can noticeably
so it runs optimally. Taking these measures can significantly reduce the minimise downtime and improve their system’s reliability and efficiency.
amount of energy needed to power solutions and demonstrates how a From a sustainability perspective, AI can help reduce the amount
little goes a long way. of hardware IT leaders purchase, manage and monitor, which will
When it comes to transitioning to the cloud, businesses should be consequently lessen energy consumption. An AI solution can help
assessing which applications are needed and which can be retired, as businesses to better scale their resources to avoid congestion, and help
this also decreases the power needed alongside the carbon footprint. managers to oversee their resourcing levels, make real-time decisions and
For instance, any applications that aren’t being used regularly within the improve overall efficiency.
company, as well as full email inboxes, should be sorted through in order That being said, operators need to be aware that solutions such as AI
to reduce the load that is being transferred. may require more power to run. Therefore, before blindly implementing
With this, IT leaders should also modernise and optimise applications an AI or ML model, it’s imperative that businesses identify and understand
during the migration stage. Not a ‘lift and shift’ but a ‘transform and the right use cases for these solutions, train their workforce on how to use
move’ mindset. This can minimise storage requirements and also helps it responsibly, and invest in the necessary infrastructure to run it efficiently.

Making a difference
Ultimately, the future of data centres should involve working towards
IT and I&O leaders should use feasible sustainability goals and putting effort and investments into
real-time and predictive analytics greener operations.

in order to maximise the life cycle Cloud providers in particular should be creating that sustainability
vision, driving a roadmap and making adjustments, no matter how small,
of their data centre assets in order to progress on their net zero journey and reduce their carbon
footprints wherever possible.

Summer 2024 www.datacentrereview.com 15

 Hyperscaler,

hybrid or

multi-cloud?
 CLOUD COMPUTING

Reece Gohil, Microsoft and managing data in the cloud – a particularly useful capability when
in-house teams lack experience outside of their own systems.
Product Owner at Six
The problem here is that there are some very big industries, such as
Degrees, gives some finance, healthcare and legal, that work within stringent compliance and
insight into understanding security boundaries. This means they need to ensure the hyperscaler of
the role of hyperscale choice meets their security and compliance challenges before migrating
workloads to the public cloud. Therefore having a clear plan and assessing
architecture in a hybrid
all workloads before migrating between platforms is critical to meeting a
cloud strategy. company’s goals and objectives.
Looking more closely at security, to unlock the full potential of cloud

I
n the varied cloud computing ecosystem, hyperscalers are technologies, businesses must adopt a holistic approach, moving beyond
very well named. These are the biggest global providers traditional on-premises methods to leverage the expertise of cloud
offering a wide range of services that can be massively security professionals and tailored security measures. This approach is
scaled according to demand. The sheer size and value of the especially useful when organisations are implementing a multi-cloud
industry can best be explained by looking at some headline figures. approach where customised security controls are required to meet
According to a 2023 study, the top 19 hyperscalers had more than 900 regulatory requirements, and geo-redundancy is used to distribute
data centres in operation globally, with the top four (AWS, Google Cloud, mission-critical components across multiple data centres to protect
Meta and Microsoft Azure) accounting for nearly 80% of worldwide against the risks of downtime at a particular location.
capacity. To even be considered a hyperscale data centre they need to host
at least 5,000 servers, with the largest having similar power requirements Blending services
to that of a small city. In fact, for organisations looking to capture the overall benefits of cloud
What’s more, the sector is far from its peak, with hyperscalers expected computing – such as scalability, cost savings and better security – without
to almost triple the amount of data centres they have over the next six the challenges associated with using a hyperscaler, hybrid or multi-cloud
years as the market heads towards a trillion dollars in value by 2032 – or solutions offer a very useful alternative. Given that every infrastructure
considerably more than that, depending on which forecast is used. And strategy will have unique requirements, blending the services derived
even now, in 2024, the growth is still exponential. In fact, Microsoft from on-premises, private and public clouds – all supported by unified
Cloud reported a 13% revenue increase last year, bringing it to $56.5 management – means that each can be configured to deliver the optimum
billion. level of performance and cost.
However, this demand isn’t unwarranted. There’s a reason large cloud In this context, the adoption of a hybrid cloud approach can ensure
providers like Microsoft are so popular and it’s because, when used in the each workload is hosted in the most appropriate execution venue. In
right place at the right time, hyperscalers can prove a great investment. general terms, this could result in hyperscale infrastructure being used
for requirements that must be delivered at scale and are less sensitive to
From hyperscale to hybrid compliance requirements. On-premises infrastructure or private clouds
Clearly, hyperscale cloud has become a highly compelling proposition can then be adopted for specific workloads where security is paramount,
for organisations worldwide. But, while the approach offers a range of where legacy technologies continue to play an important role or where
important benefits, not every use case is ideally suited to a hyperscale redundancy, resilience and disaster recovery are high on the list of
platform. Organisations going down this path first need to consider priorities.
whether applications, workloads and critical data are hosted in an Given these various opportunities and challenges, and as hyperscalers
appropriate location, and whether partnering with a hyperscaler is right continue to shape the cloud computing landscape, businesses must
from a security, scalability, control and cost perspective. carefully assess their strategies to deliver a win-win approach. By
Take the core challenges associated with the adoption of hyperscale prioritising security, compliance and strategic adoption, they can harness
infrastructure, for example. For many organisations, one of the big the power of cloud technologies in a way that most precisely meets
attractions of working with the likes of AWS, Azure or Google Cloud their priorities while allowing them maximum opportunity to adapt as
Platform is that they take away some of the challenges around securing circumstances evolve.

For organisations looking to capture the overall

benefits of cloud computing – such as scalability, cost
savings and better security – without the challenges
associated with using a hyperscaler, hybrid or multi-cloud
solutions offer a very useful alternative

Summer 2024 www.datacentrereview.com 17

 Making the
most of
data centre
WASTE
HEAT
I
n our digital age, data centres are pivotal infrastructure.
Shahid Rahman, EMEA They facilitate the flow of information that we rely on in
– Data Centre Strategic almost every aspect of our lives, including commerce,
Account Lead (Engineered government, education and even entertainment.
However, their high level of energy consumption and environmental
IT Cooling Solutions)
impact pose significant challenges, and data centre users are increasingly
at Mitsubishi Electric, concerned with their carbon footprint.
explores how heat reuse This means there is an urgent need to decarbonise data centres so that
can revolutionise data the UK can reach net zero by 2050. Other countries have already started
to implement measures to reduce their carbon footprint. For example,
centre efficiency. the Dutch government banned new data centre hyperscale projects for 9
months, and the Irish government has introduced policies to scrutinise
data centres more closely.
However, slowing down or halting data centre development is not
the only way to minimise the environmental impact. Embracing heat
recovery solutions is another method to make data centres more energy
efficient and sustainable and move towards a decarbonised future. Such
solutions allow data centre developers and operators to provide robust,
fault-free services while reducing energy use and emissions.

Sustainable heating solutions

One way to minimise the carbon footprint of data centres is by reusing
the heat that they generate. Previously, the priority has been to use
cooling technologies that meet energy-reduction targets. Now, we must
shift the focus to the reuse of heat energy that actually gives data centres
the potential to decarbonise further and build a more sustainable future.
In fact, excess heat from data centres can be used to heat other nearby
buildings and homes, and provide them with a greener heating source.
Certain countries have already started leading the way in this area.
For example, the new German Energy Efficiency Act has made reusing
‘waste’ heat a requirement and has set an ambitious target of data centres
achieving 10% heat reuse by 2026 and 20% by 2028.

18 www.datacentrereview.com Summer 2024

 HEAT REUSE

When looking
at linking the
data centre to a
new or existing
heat network,
heat mapping is
the first step

Depending on a data centre’s heat output and location, several with heat and hot water via a large network of pipes. The Climate Change
approaches to heat recovery can be applied. One is district heating and Committee (CCC) estimates that 18% of UK heat could come from heat
cooling as a service, which consists of having a heat pump recycle the networks by 2050 (up from 2% today).
water from the district heat network to cool the data centre. The heat
pump then collects the waste heat from the cooling activity and pushes Key considerations
it to the city network. The reheated hot water from the data centre is Data centre developers and operators must keep in mind that there are
combined with the water in the general heat network, increasing the a number of considerations to make before embracing heat reuse. When
return temperature. Overall, less energy is consumed across the whole looking at linking the data centre to a new or existing heat network, heat
heat network, and energy costs and the carbon footprint are reduced. mapping is the first step. This is a way to ensure that there is an outlet for
Heat reuse has important benefits, and many leading data centre the waste heat a reasonable distance from the data centre – or that there
developers and owners are embracing this innovative approach. For already is a heat network that can use extra capacity.
example, at Amazon’s Tallaght data centre in Dublin, the heat generated The second step is to evaluate the cooling demand of the data centre
by servers is transferred to an air-handling unit and then recycled to across the year and to size and specify cooling equipment. For example,
warm water. The water is then directed to an energy centre outside the buildings that are close to the data centre may not have high heat
warehouse, where the temperature is further increased using heat pumps. requirements, while heat networks which supply domestic customers
As a result, carbon dioxide emissions are reduced by 1,500 tons, and have higher and more predictable heat demand profiles. Additionally,
over 505,000 square feet of local public buildings, 32,800 square feet of buildings such as hospitals, schools and leisure centres are also sources of
commercial buildings, and 133 apartments are provided with heating. heat demand that must be considered.
The ideal solution is a water-to-water heat pump or a heat pump
Optimising waste heat reuse chiller. The heat output of the heat pump can then be calculated to
Reducing the environmental impact of data centres requires green establish the annual heat output profile. So, when setting out these
technologies such as heat pumps and heat networks which provide projects, designers are looking for a successful match of data centre heat
heating and hot water more efficiently. output and local heating requirements.
In particular, heat pumps are essential to make the most of waste heat.
Data centre output heat is around 30°C to 35°C. Heat pumps can use Paving the way to decarbonisation
water at this temperature as a heat source, bringing the water to 70°C or By repurposing excess heat using heat pump technology and district
even 80°C. This heat energy can be used in the data centre (or nearby heating networks, not only can data centres enhance energy efficiency,
buildings and homes) to meet domestic hot water (DHW) demand in but also contribute to advancing sustainable heating solutions for
washrooms and showers, for example. communities. So, as we navigate the transition to a decarbonised future,
Alternatively, when it comes to providing water to homes located it is imperative to recognise that data centres are not simply big energy
further from the data centre, the heat energy can be used on a wider scale users, but have a crucial role to play in paving the way towards a greener,
in heat networks connected to the city. Households can then be provided more resilient future.

Summer 2024 www.datacentrereview.com 19

A SUSTAINABLE
BACK-UP
SOLUTION
Michael Sagar, Director recyclable, with a recycling rate of more than 99% in certain countries.
of Marketing, Energy Technological advancements have continually improved lead-acid
batteries, making them a reliable choice for UPS systems. Indeed,
Systems at EnerSys, manufacturers have introduced valve-regulated lead-acid batteries
explains how lead-acid that require minimal maintenance and offer enhanced safety features.
batteries can support the While some battery vendors compare alternative battery chemistries to
conventional lead-acid technology, it’s important to note that advanced
environmental goals of
lead-acid batteries can offer superior performance in terms of electrical
data centres. parameters, operational longevity, battery recycling, and renewable
energy integration.

T
he environmental impact of data centres is a growing
concern, with the International Energy Agency (IEA) Electrical parameters
reporting that this sector accounts for 1-1.5% of global Efficient electricity consumption is crucial for environmentally-conscious
electricity use. Given this, data centre operators must data centre UPS installations. Batteries that can charge quickly and
prioritise environmental factors when choosing UPS battery units. efficiently reduce the power drawn from the mains supply grid. The
During mains power outages, data centres require a reliable source architecture of some lead-acid data centre batteries ensures that the
of standby power for their critical infrastructure. One of the commonly associated electrical demand is maintained to a minimum.
deployed battery chemistries for this purpose is lead-acid. These batteries Additionally, accelerated charge rates are important from an
are often favoured due to their cost-effectiveness and high performance, operational perspective. Building up the State of Charge (SoC) rapidly
contributing significantly to the global lead-acid battery market, which, prepares the data centre for the potential of subsequent outages in quick
according to Fortune Business Insights, is projected to grow from $45.84 succession. Selecting batteries that support this is particularly important
billion in 2023 to $65.18 billion by 2030. Furthermore, lead batteries are to site resilience.

20 www.datacentrereview.com Summer 2024

 BATTERIES

Batteries that can

charge quickly and efficiently
reduce the power drawn from
the mains supply grid

battery (lead, plastic and acid) are 100% recyclable.

Impacts of renewable energy

Operators should aim to improve their facilities’ environmental
sustainability. A primary way to do this is by reducing the power that the
IT consumes and lowering the carbon content of the utility supply. One
way to effectively do this is by storing renewable energy in on-site battery
energy storage systems, taking generated power from on-site solar panels
and nearby wind turbines. This will supplement the power requirements
of the data centre facility using low carbon solutions, improving site
sustainability.

Enhanced lead-acid battery architectures

One appealing architecture to data centre operators is Thin Plate
Pure Lead Battery (TPPL) technology. TPPL batteries offer elevated
performance and extended working lifespans, with a typical design life of
over 12 years when operated at a temperature of 20°C.
One of the key advantages of TPPL batteries is their significantly
higher charge acceptance compared to conventional lead-acid batteries,
allowing quick replenishment of the SoC. TPPL batteries are also
highly efficient when operating in float mode, requiring up to 33% less
electricity than other lead-acid batteries to maintain their charge. Their
thinner plates also enable greater energy densities, which is a benefit at
space-constrained sites.
Operational longevity Moreover, TPPL batteries are less prone to grid corrosion due to
The operating lifespan and performance of a battery will be limited by their pure lead grids, resulting in better structural integrity and higher
grid integrity, as explained later in this article. In an open grain grid efficiency. This durability makes TPPL batteries suitable for an on-site
structure, corrosion takes place. Acid exposure at the grid boundaries renewable energy storage system (ESS). As electricity supply networks
leads to a reduction in current carrying capacity, grid growth (through become more dependent on renewable sources that are inherently more
corrosion), and loss of contact between the grid and active material prone to fluctuations in power generation, batteries at data centre sites
leading to the reduction of the active material area. could be used to help maintain grid stability.
Increased battery replacement frequency and associated labour costs Prolonging the working lifespan of batteries, as TPPL batteries can do,
emphasise the importance of selecting durable energy storage options. may lead to considerable total cost of ownership benefits for data centre
This achieves a more favourable total cost of ownership (TCO) while also operators. TPPL batteries can operate at higher ambient temperatures,
reducing waste and lowering recycling needs. which lowers TCO further by minimising cooling costs. Additionally,
TPPL batteries need less maintenance compared to conventional
Battery recycling battery types and have lower ventilation requirements, which reduces
Disposing of batteries at the end of their usable life is an environmental operational expenses and keeps TCO down.
concern. The Batteries Regulation is the first piece of European law that As data centre workloads continue to grow, operators must enhance
addresses and unifies sourcing, production, use, and recycling under a operational capacities while minimising their facilities’ environmental
single legislative framework. Starting in 2025, targets will be introduced impact. TPPL batteries offer a compelling backup power solution with
gradually for recycled content, material recovery, and recycling efficiency. cost-effective upfront costs, minimal ancillary expenses, fast charging
Investigating the recyclability of battery types is, therefore, essential. performance, prolonged lifespan, and high recyclability. By choosing
Lead-acid batteries are highly recyclable. According to the Battery TPPL batteries, data centre operators can align their operations with
Council International (BCI), the trade association for the North industry-leading environmental standards and contribute to a more
American battery industry, the three main components of a lead-acid sustainable future.

Summer 2024 www.datacentrereview.com 21

 Harnessing the
POWER OF
DATA
The power of effective data management
Paul Mackay, Vice
Unlike many precious commodities, the value of data is defined not by
President Cloud – EMEA its scarcity, but how it is used. Managing data effectively is increasingly
& APAC at Cloudera, important – and challenging – given today’s highly complex IT
explores how data is environments that span on-premises systems and private/public clouds.
This hybrid and multi-cloud approach means data is often geographically
changing lives across
dispersed and siloed by different technology infrastructures and policies.
the globe. Organisations need a cost-effective way to get the right data to the
right people at the right time – empowering staff to make informed
decisions. And organisations must do so in a consistent, seamless
manner that enables staff to self-serve data easily within the confines of

D
ata has long been one of the most valuable assets any a complex patchwork of data security and governance regulations. To
organisation possesses – and now, it’s growing at an achieve this, organisations must look for the right architectures to suit
unstoppable rate. The volume of data created, captured, their business needs.
copied and consumed worldwide is projected to hit 147 A data fabric architecture is useful for preparing and managing data
zettabytes in 2024, a 23% year-on-year increase. at scale. Open data lakehouses combine the storage capabilities of a
More data means more potential use cases. In recent years, data has data lake with the structure and accessibility of a data warehouse via the
gone from something that was collected and applied to relatively simple cloud. This offers the added benefits of near unlimited storage, scalable
tasks, to an asset that is now genuinely changing lives in areas such as virtualised compute power, cost efficiency and high resiliency.
drug discovery, personalised healthcare treatments and the development
of smarter, greener cities. Transforming industries
However, the increase in the scale of data is amplifying the challenge Organisations able to build a data architecture that harnesses the power
of storing and analysis. New approaches are emerging to manage and of data will be able to explore new use cases. From smart cities to finance,
extract value from huge data repositories. But only those organisations almost every industry is finding ways to make the most of their data:
with the capability to manage the deluge of data effectively will fully • Making smart cities smarter: Modern hybrid cloud data
realise the benefits and create meaningful use cases. architectures enable governments and other stakeholders to ingest,

22 www.datacentrereview.com Summer 2024

 DATA MANAGEMENT

store and analyse large volumes of unstructured data. By reaping the

energy efficiency benefits of cloud and enhancing access to data-driven
Hybrid cloud and modern
insights, organisations can reduce carbon emissions while analysing data architectures have been
•
real-time data on events like crime and traffic congestion.
Delivering lifesaving treatment faster: From accelerating data
deployed to support IoT and
processing to speed up the search for organ donors, to using predictive enhance production and supply
chains for Industry 4.0 sites
analytics to personalise treatments, the power of the cloud and data
is saving lives. In pharmaceuticals, drug companies able to unleash
the combined force of data and AI are also optimising R&D and drug
discovery to bring life-saving treatments to market faster.
• Metamorphic manufacturing: Hybrid cloud and modern data
architectures have been deployed to support IoT and enhance actions, such as enhancing customer chatbots, while predictive
production and supply chains for Industry 4.0 sites. With analytics can analyse transactions in real-time to prevent suspicious
greater insight into inventory, and more agile processes in place, activity and fraud.
manufacturers can pivot fast to minimise supply chain disruption and
react to changing market demands. That means getting the products Just the beginning
that users want into their hands quicker. This is far from an exhaustive list of the potential benefits that a modern
• Keeping customers connected: By tearing down traditional silos and data architecture can deliver. Once organisations are able tap into the
supporting AI analytics, modern hybrid architectures give telcos a wealth of data they create and capture every single second, the door
360-degree view of their customers, network operations and services. opens to unlimited possibilities.
These insights enable faster fault detection for improved network Business leaders need data to make smarter decisions about their
performance, and more accurate customer profiling for an optimised customers and their operations. But as data volumes grow and IT
end-to-end experience. complexity increases, this becomes more challenging. That’s when hybrid
• Truly personal finance: By analysing real-time contextual data from and multi-cloud data platforms come into their own: eliminating data
customer interactions, banks can curate relevant experiences across all silos and supporting rapid, cost-effective access for the right people at the
channels. GenAI promises a step-change in the capabilities of complex right time.

Summer 2024 www.datacentrereview.com 23

NEW FROM

DATA CENTRE REVIEW

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 FINAL SAY

Digital
transformation
needs a
human touch
Nav Uppal, Chief Digital Officer at Pulsant,
explains the importance of taking a people-
centric approach to digital transformation.

I
n today’s fast-paced digital landscape, organisations are perspectives and ensure we challenge the ‘we have always done it this
under constant pressure to evolve and adapt. Digital way’ thinking. Enabling success involves challenging the status-quo,
transformation has become a near-constant, with pushing people in a supportive way to think differently to existing
companies of all sizes investing significant resources into problems. This can be done via setting up cross-functional groups,
modernising their operations, processes, and technologies. obtaining views from across different industries and engaging within the
Despite the buzz that new and novel technologies bring, it’s crucial wider industry itself.
not to lose sight of the people that transformation will impact – even in Simply put, an understanding of what people need from technology
what could be perceived as a pure infrastructure industry, such as data should be a priority, and we need to support and skill our people to
centres. Contrary to popular belief, successful transformation isn’t just undertake these tasks. User-centric design principles and a customer-
about implementing the latest technologies, or streamlining processes. centric approach are foundational to success.
Success comes by understanding and prioritising the needs of the people A human-centric approach will involve user testing and gathering
involved. You should not underestimate the importance of a human- feedback to refine chosen solutions, ensuring they’re user-friendly and
centric approach to digital transformation, internally and externally. fit for purpose. Similarly, key performance indicators (KPIs) should
be focused not only on technical benchmarks but also on measures of
Putting people first employee satisfaction and wellbeing, and customer experience.
The key focus in any transformation journey is to establish a
comprehensive understanding of existing processes and workflows – Opening up communication
which will clarify the pain points, strengths, weaknesses, and bottlenecks Diversity within teams also plays a crucial role in driving successful
across the business. This process ensures you establish a holistic view digital transformation. Including a variety of perspectives and
of operations to better understand the critical components and systems experiences from different industries and ways of life in the process
that can’t be disrupted, which in turn helps to more effectively plan the brings valuable insights to the table, enabling organisations to be
transition to new systems and technologies. innovative in the solutions to cater to a broader range of users.
It’s impossible to manage this without significant employee Communication is obviously key to leveraging this diversity, fostering
engagement. Your people are on the front line, living the day-to-day an environment where diverse opinions are welcomed, and feedback is
operations that you’re attempting to improve. They are ultimately the actively encouraged.
best-placed people to inform your digital transformation strategy, and Cross departmental communication will also ensure gaps in processes
their input can foster a sense of ownership and buy-in to the business are covered and give confidence of working solutions. We have all seen
– not only improving engagement, but aligning their goals with the and experienced situations where one department implements successful
broader objectives of the organisation. change for themselves, but without considering the impacts up or
There is of course a balance to be maintained to obtain fresh downstream – which unfortunately takes the whole business backwards

Summer 2024 www.datacentrereview.com 25

FINAL SAY

Leadership commitment is another critical factor. Open

communication channels, a culture that values honest communication,
Including a variety of
and a deep understanding of both team and customer needs are all perspectives and experiences
integral to successful digital transformation. As such, leaders must from different industries and
clearly communicate the rationale behind decisions, ensuring that their
people understand them and feel empowered to raise any concerns.
ways of life in the process brings
At its core, digital transformation is about more than just valuable insights to the table
implementing new technologies or automating existing processes. It’s
about bringing together the perspectives needed to reshape the way
organisations operate, interact with customers, and deliver value – all in
a stable controlled manner. before, during and after the transformation facilitates quicker
adaptation to new thinking, processes and tools, reducing resistance
Establishing principles for a human-centric digital shift and enhancing capabilities for long-term use.
It’s clear at this point that digital transformation requires a lot from • People-based metrics: success measurement should include people-
an organisation’s leaders. They must be able to simultaneously drive based metrics, aligning with the growing focus on wellbeing and a
progress while also actively listening to internal and external needs, sense of belonging in a hybrid working environment. How any change
recognising their feedback and tackling any worries. is implemented is just as important as to what the change was.
To remain focused, the following principles will help leaders stay the • Cultural change: throughout the transformation, a cultural
course of a human-centric digital transformation: shift occurs naturally, with users more open to promoting ideas,
• Target pain points: solutions should address the pain points raised recommending enhancements, and solving problems down the line –
at the outset, foster shared goals and engagement across departments. take note and iterate with this change.
Solutions should be challenged to be optimal and take learnings from Ultimately, following these principles can drive a more human-
a variety of sources so not only are they fit for now, but also for the centric approach to digital transformation leading to real value and
future. efficiency across the business, while simultaneously helping to foster an
• Continuous feedback: implementing feedback loops throughout the environment where people feel their voice is valued.
transformation process through prototype testing, surveys and wider Any transformation involves users and businesses transcending
trials will allow for constant evolution of ideas in an agile manner. The through the change curve, and there is no quicker way to do this than by
world constantly evolves and so must our thinking and approach. placing people at the centre of the transformation process. Through this
• Employee support and training: providing support and training we ensure that technology is a catalyst for positive change, for all.

26 www.datacentrereview.com Summer 2024

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