DNIO - a data orchestra

We have unique challenges in managing data centres as a complete entity in order to provide the consumption-based model that clients require, because there is always a physical component, which is finite.

It struck me recently that whilst we are evolving towards a fully software defined data centres on a large scale, we are not quite there yet, and in some ways we have had unrealistic expectations in the past of what DCIM could do. We expected a single pain of glass that showed us the entire system of systems within our data centre. We expected to be able to manage capacity from ways on PDUs through to patch panel ports. We expected that a lot of our internal policies and procedures to simply be replicated supported and automated within the system. We expected quite a lot from what was touted as a software solution. Whilst some systems could offer these things, there were various difficulties in making them become a reality. In fact, a few years ago, depending on who you spoke to, the ‘M’ in DCIM could represent Management or Monitoring. There wasn’t even agreement on the acronym.

However, we have evolved. We know that integration is one of the hardest parts of implementing a DCIM program, and we know that integration of all components and systems is the key to delivering the value. We also know that we must look at the IT systems as well as the data centre facility systems, and the connectivity infrastructure. Lastly, we know now that asset management is a key foundation of a DCIM project. Given this, we are now implementing solutions which integrate and orchestrate infrastructure, networks and and IT systems. We propose that DCIM has grown up and should now be called Datacentre, Network and Infrastructure Orchestration, or DNIO.

I think that if you see DCIM as software, then you will not gain the benefits of implementing it. This article by Emily Ketchen draws parallels between business and leading like a conductor, and we need to lead like conductors when implementing a DNIO system. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/leading-like-orchestra-conductor-business-world-emily-ketchen/.

In her article, Emily states: “One of the first things a conductor does is gather the talent they will need to form a complete orchestra. Once everyone has been hired, they will schedule rehearsal after rehearsal to get everyone on the same page and establish a rapport with the musicians. Then, as the maestro ascends to the podium, the job becomes all about conveying the right tempo and guiding everyone to their one goal, which is to make great music together.

In leading a business practice or unit, the steps are similar. You clearly define your vision and goals; build a diverse team for accomplishing them; nurture relationships; and set the tempo as the team executes on the task.”

Anyone implementing a DNIO program would do well to follow this approach. Firstly, know what you want from your solution, and don’t just choose the partner who can tick the most boxes.

Secondly, choose a partner who understands that this is not just software, there are several components to this program, and to ignore them during the procurement cycle, will only negatively impact your budget later.

Thirdly, identify all of the stakeholders in your company and ensure they buy into the vision and are actively engaged. Be the DNIO champion and set the tempo with regular program meetings. The conductor’s job is to enable people’s stories to be heard at the same time. Create opportunities to find synergies – they are there. You just have to get the right people in the room. Like the conductor, create space for processes and the conditions where these processes can take place.

Lastly, integration is key to gaining maximum business value, so build an agile framework with open integrations between systems. This way as you add data centres, or systems, they can be added to the DNIO.

If you follow this advice, then you will not only have a functioning DNIO providing your single pane of glass, but you will implement on budget and keep all your stakeholders happy, whilst running a cost-efficient data centre. It is possible to manage physical and virtual systems in one place.

Out of the chaos comes order. Out of noise comes music

Assaf Skolnik
CEO
RiT Tech (Intelligence Solutions) Ltd.