Study: Data Center Demand is Strong, Broad

Is the current demand for data center space for real? Is it broad-based? Will it last? Yes, yes and yes, according to a new study of 150 corporate data center operators commissioned by Digital Realty Trust (DLR).

Nearly 85 percent of companies surveyed say they expected to expand their data center network within the next three years, with 33 percent saying the expansion is either already underway or will occur within the next year. Of those who are planning datacenter expansions, 75 percent plan to expand in two or more locations, indicating that these expansions will be complex, multi-site data center projects.

"This data illustrates that the demand for advanced datacenter facilities is broad-based and has long term growth prospects given the scope and timeline of the projects described by these companies," said Michael Foust, CEO of Digital Realty Trust. "The study also confirms what we see: that the datacenter has become a critical part of business operations whether you make loans, build cars, or provide energy solutions. Its strategic importance crosses all industry verticals, not just Internet-centric companies."

The research was conducted by the respected research firm Campos Research & Analysis which surveyed executives at leading corporations throughout North America about their data center-related initiatives. The average company surveyed has between three and four major datacenters, and nearly 20 percent operate six or more major datacenters (excluding "IT closets in branch offices").

The study cited a wide range of drivers in the push to expand data centers. These include:

"This study underscores that numerous factors are behind these datacenter initiatives, rather than a single issue," said Chris Crosby, Senior Vice President of Sales and Technical Services for Digital Realty Trust. "More than compliance requirements, power issues or new applications alone