There are some aspects that might be more important than in other infrastructure projects:
- requirements on data center certification
- availability of new data center or new space in data center for scheduling the move
- big bang move or systemwise (consider interdependencies between systems)
- requirements regarding redundancies and high availability
- duration of downtime and possible slots
- out of sequence backups before the move
- sequence of shutting down and booting systems
- zone models and permission concept considering the new circumstances
- security of data storage (esp. when changing the country)
- transport
- upfront communication regarding declines in performance, availability, functionalities, and features
This is NOT a complete list, but may give an impression of the massive change a data center move usually means. Saving Changes...
arlene trimbleAssistant IT Director| Local GovernmentAlamo, Ca, United States
Thank you Christina for the detailed response. Indeed! There are a lot of moving parts during data center move beyond the physical hardware. This information is very helpful to me and for the other members who will be reading this discussion. Saving Changes...
Ivan LebronRetired IT Project Manager| IT Project Management Services, LLCToa Baja, Puerto Rico
Hi Arlene,
Also, from the communications side, keep in mind to make plans for proper infrastructure settings including possible changes on IPs from ISPs when moving from one site to another. This means possible re-programming of routers, switches, firewalls and even sometimes, certain Internet / Intranet applications. I hope this helps.
Cordially,
Ivan Lebron Saving Changes...
Jack BlackChief Project Officer| PMConnectionJackson, Oh, United States
I have been involved with a few, but it was over 10 years ago. I recall a very long lead time to get a T1 telecommunications line installed.
arlene trimbleAssistant IT Director| Local GovernmentAlamo, Ca, United States
Thank you Ivan and Jack for the important points to remember! I appreciate your response. The information that I am getting from you would be a good foundation for an excellent checklist for Data Center Move!
