Data centers are, and always will be, the heart of an organization. Without the data center, information does not flow to the systems and processes a business needs to function. Optimizing the data center, therefore, is mission-critical for keeping pace with today’s global markets and staying ahead of the competition. The first step in doing so is implementing a data center infrastructure management (DCIM) tool that can support digitalization, cloud adoption, enterprise-wide data sharing, and future demands. Outdated tools that solely manage space, power, and cooling simply cannot handle the demands of today’s modern data centers. Network cabling and connectivity are very much an integral part of today’s hybrid ecosystems and must therefore be managed in unison with traditional data center resources.
This approach requires a willingness to depart from traditional data center operation precepts and embrace a future-proof DCIM solution. One that provides transparency into the entire IT landscape, not just the data center proper, to enable comprehensive planning, efficient processes, and automation. One that is based on a central management hub and optimization platform that provides a complete, integrated view of all resources.
A new, state-of-the-art tool can effectively manage all relevant IT, telecommunications and data center information within a central system, from the physical and logical layers to virtualization, including all cable and network aspects and services. As a result, data from several departments is available within a single tool instead of several independent applications. This centralized approach guarantees the timeliness, integrity, and coherence of the data. It’s also important for a DCIM tool to be able to integrate and share data with other IT systems in order to achieve greater operational insight, optimize workflows, and improve data management.
As an advanced web-based software solution, FNT Command provides much-needed visibility into all infrastructure elements by mapping physical assets, virtual components, applications, and services, including all physical/logical connections and dependencies, within a central database. FNT Command also provides interface functionalities for automated data exchange and collaboration and integrated process management to efficiently monitor planned changes.
From flexible processes and standard formats to vendor independence and active product maintenance, there are many other features and functionalities to look for in a future-proof DCIM solution. Most importantly, a DCIM tool must be able to meet future demands and support a company’s digital transformation.
Learn how you can future-proof your data center with a state-of-the-art DCIM tool in our white paper, Rethinking DCIM. Oliver Lindner, Director Product Management at FNT Software, discusses what companies should consider when choosing a DCIM tool and shares why a top-down approach is important for long-term value. Download the white paper here.
