EDITOR ' S QUESTION
Thanks to drastic improvements to traditional construction , the longawaited promises associated with modular data centres are fast becoming a reality . While it may seem crazy that we can construct critical infrastructure from a single location with a strict quality control process akin to a car assembly line , it ’ s becoming a reality worldwide .
Prefabricated , modular data centres are truly changing the game thanks to coordinated global supply chains , effective project management protocols and emerging construction technologies . These advancements ensure that modular components no longer need to compromise on complexity or density .
Why is modular so appealing then ?
We all know how critical speed is for all parties . Failing to meet data centre construction project milestones can cause losses to the tune of millions of dollars . Time to market is the major success metric in our industry , and utilising a fully modular prefabrication approach significantly accelerates delivery .
While modular , pre-built projects are already quicker than traditional approaches , other elements speed up the process even further . Modular builds , when assembled accurately , reduce error probability and slash subsequent rework . This means that critical infrastructure is built right first time , which is understandably an attractive outcome for owners and general contractors .
Not every aspect of a build must be modular . Every project benefits from a tailored approach . This could mean building an entire facility or selecting specific pre-built modules to ease any pain points or particularly high-risk elements that need to be done right .
Pre-fabrication also reduces the strain of labour shortages and lets builders know that the build will be accurate . It raises morale at all levels of the project – without compromising on quality . Even better , this approach guarantees quality like any other factory-built product .
Built and tested off-site , you completely control the modules ’ construction environments . They aren ’ t impacted by weather conditions , workforce issues and other elements that may impact on-site builds . Quality can be guaranteed before the modules are assembled .
Considering the mammoth investment being made into data centres , and the demanding turnaround times often associated , guaranteeing precise quality and reducing the need for rework just makes sense – and that ’ s why modular data centres are only going to grow in popularity . �
DAVID MITCHELL
FOUNDER & CEO , XYZ REALITY
www . intelligentbuild . tech 27