In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, IT infrastructure decisions stand as the backbone of business growth and innovation. Emerging technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), coupled with increasing connectivity regulations, necessitate a shift in how businesses perceive and invest in their digital infrastructure.
This blog will delve into the decisions, strategies, and digital infrastructure investment strategies businesses are making, backed by insights from Telehouse’s recent research report. We surveyed 250 UK IT decision-makers on the imminent and future demands on technology infrastructure. Here’s what we found.
Decisions businesses need to make regarding IT infrastructure
In the race to stay ahead of the curve, businesses are grappling with crucial IT infrastructure decisions concerning their technology infrastructure:
The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
The proliferation of AI in today’s business landscape is unmistakable. As AI continues to weave itself into the fabric of operations, decision-making processes, and customer interfaces, the underlying infrastructure assets become paramount.
A considerable 89% of IT professionals predict their organisation will require high-density/high-performance computer systems in the future to enhance the opportunities presented by new technologies to deliver ever-more complex solutions for customers. The digital transformation clock is ticking, with a quarter (25%) saying they will need to meet these requirements within the next year and 17% within the next two years.
The tightening grip of security and compliance
The relentless pace of digital transformation carries with it an intricate web of security and connectivity regulations. Especially when businesses look towards hybrid models, integrating in-house setups with colocation solutions and managed services. The directive is simple yet demanding: evolve in sync with the digital landscape while upholding data protection and regulatory tenets.
How to build an IT infrastructure strategy
In a world embracing digitalisation at an unprecedented pace, proactive IT infrastructure strategy isn’t just recommended; it’s imperative. This means aligning with public cloud solutions, leaning into AI, and securing connectivity. The allure of hybrid setups, merging infrastructure assets with colocation options like Telehouse, is becoming more pronounced. Colocation comes with a range of benefits:
- Operational mastery & robustness: A sizeable 40% of enterprises are looking towards AI-powered infrastructure management through colocation to bolster their operational efficiency.
- Next-gen connectivity: With 42% of decision-makers considering 5G access through colocation, the potential for improved IT connectivity is evident.
- The edge computing edge: A swift data processing promise has 35% of businesses leaning towards the edge computing capabilities provided by data centres.
- Geographical preferences: Location does matter. A third prefer their servers in London’s heart, while 26% eye other major city hubs.
Additionally, with sustainability increasingly commanding boardroom discussions, the draw towards renewable energy-powered data centres and innovative cooling methodologies grows. The world of colocation also exploring a shift towards higher operational temperatures in data centres, aiming to optimise both power and water consumption.
When building your IT infrastructure strategy, you should:
- Assess current technology infrastructure: Understand your present IT landscape. Identify bottlenecks, outdated hardware and software, and areas for improvement.
- Define clear objectives: What do you aim to achieve? Whether it’s enhancing security, supporting AI applications, or ensuring compliance, your objectives will shape your infrastructure strategy.
- Consult experts: Consider partnering with experienced providers like Telehouse to guide your strategic development, ensuring optimal outcomes and cost-effectiveness in your IT infrastructure investment.
- Continuous monitoring & iteration: The digital realm continues to grow. Regularly review and update your strategy to stay current and effective.
Investing in IT infrastructure
In this digital age, decisions around IT infrastructure go beyond just operations; they have strategic implications. From enhancing security measures to tapping into the potential of AI and cloud service, businesses are looking for agile, future-proof, and resilient infrastructure assets. The insights from our survey emphasize the importance of meeting current requirements while also preparing for future challenges.
So, whether you’re considering high-density computing setups, edge computing, or environmentally-friendly cooling solutions, the IT infrastructure decisions made today pave the way for tomorrow’s successes.