DCK Guide to Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM)

IO-OS-inside-module

Data center management software running inside a modular data center. (Photo: IO)

Today’s data centers are more complex, more interdependent and more critical than ever before.  This has led to the need for more intelligent and automated IT infrastructure management. The tools which enable the data center team to effectively and efficiently operate this complex environment have been grouped into a classification of solutions known collectively as Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM).

In a recent Data Center Knowledge audience survey, more than 65 percent of readers said DCIM products and services were in their purchase plans. To help our audience better understand the benefits and different types of DCIM solutions in the market, we worked with Dave Cole a veteran of the DCIM market to create the Data Center Knowledge Guide to Data Center Infrastructure Management.

What is DCIM?

Gartner defines DCIM as “tools that monitor, measure, manage and/or control data center use and energy consumption of all IT-related equipment (such as servers, storage and network switches), and facilities infrastructure components (such as power distribution units [PDUs] and computer room air conditioners [CRACs]).” Multiple DCIM models have been put forth by analyst firms such as Gartner, Forrester and the 451 Group.  While similar in many respects, there are subtle differences between the various views of DCIM.

The Data Center Knowledge Guide to Data Center Infrastructure Management series will cover the following topics:

New installments of The Guide to Data Center Infrastructure Management series will be posted in coming days. Bookmark this page to access the entire series.

The entire DCK Guide to Data Center Infrastructure Management can be downloaded here.