Avoid Costly Mistakes: Seven Must-Know Tips for DCIM Implementation

Managing a data center is complex and challenging, and you might be considering what data center infrastructure management (DCIM) software can do to help you overcome those challenges. You’re not alone; many organizations have initiated efforts to enhance data center efficiency and dependability by introducing DCIM software.

Though the journey of DCIM implementation has its rewards, many have faced challenges and unexpected hiccups along the way. Here are some critical lessons these organizations have learned—and what they wished they had known before they dove into the world of DCIM:

1. Understanding the DCIM Business Case
   Before implementing DCIM, it's essential to understand that DCIM tools aren't one-size-fits-all solutions. Different DCIM tools offer various functionalities, from asset management to power and environmental monitoring, data center design and workflow optimization. Each tool has unique strengths, so carefully evaluating your data center's business use case is crucial before choosing the best DCIM solution. Finding a robust DCIM suite such as iTRACS is the critical first step in the process. CommScope can help you determine if iTRACS is a good fit for your business use case.


2. Comprehensive Planning is Crucial
   Most organizations quickly learn that diving into a DCIM implementation without comprehensive planning leads to inefficiency and frustration. You must first establish clear goals and objectives aligned with your business needs. Identify your critical pain points and assess how DCIM can address these issues. This process includes considering current and future capacity needs, power usage effectiveness and the overall performance of your data center. iTRACS Professional Services can develop a robust project implementation plan to help you on your path.


3. Training and Skillsets
   DCIM software is a sophisticated tool. Customers often underestimate the importance of adequate training for their team to use the software effectively. Investing in comprehensive training is vital to maximizing the benefits of DCIM. While it might seem daunting initially, the benefits of having a fully trained team are more than worth the investment. iTRACS Professional Services can help develop custom training that meets your business use cases.


4. Data Accuracy and Consistency
   A common pitfall is overlooking the importance of accurate and consistent data. DCIM tools, such as iTRACS, depend on the accuracy of the data you provide to deliver actionable insights. Incorrect or inconsistent data can lead to misinformed decisions. As such, processes should be implemented to ensure data accuracy and consistency right from the start. Even with imperfect data, iTRACS can help in the data-cleaning process by providing tools to focus on the most significant areas of concern.


5. Integrating with existing systems
   Some organizations underestimate the complexity of integrating DCIM with their existing systems. DCIM solutions must interface seamlessly with other software platforms like CMDB, ITSM and BMS tools. Working closely with your DCIM provider, like the iTRACS IT implementation team, is crucial to ensuring a successful integration. A robust API, like those found in iTRACS, helps minimize the complexity of these integrations.


6. DCIM is Not a One-Time Implementation
   Often organizations consider DCIM a one-off project, but it is a continuous process. Your data center evolves and your DCIM should adapt to these changes. Regular reviews of your DCIM strategy can help keep your data center management efforts on track and ensure your DCIM remains aligned with your changing needs. iTRACS Professional Services can help develop and improve your ongoing DCIM strategy.


7. Vendor Support is Critical
   Most important for organizations is ongoing vendor support. Selecting a DCIM provider like iTRACS, with over 35 years of experience and who offers comprehensive customer service and technical support, can make all the difference when navigating the complexities of implementing DCIM. Good vendor support can alleviate a lot of stress and uncertainty. iTRACS Customer Care and Professional Services have one of the highest customer satisfaction rates of any DCIM provider.

Implementing DCIM into data center management is a path filled with lessons, challenges and uncertainty, but ultimately, this path leads to significantly improved efficiency and productivity. If you embark on such a journey, I hope these customer insights help you avoid the most common pitfalls. Remember, the key to successful DCIM implementation is thorough planning, consistent review and leveraging vendor support.

With the proper preparation and mindset, DCIM can be invaluable in your data center management toolkit, and iTRACS is here to help.