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The demand on data centers has never been higher, and it’s only going to grow. How do we build and run today — for tomorrow? The Data Center Tech Bytes podcast features big industry conversations that take place in just a small amount of time. Join us as we begin to re-define the data center of the future, and get ready for smarter and more sustainable operations to support greater connectivity and capacity.
In episode three, Lily Yusupova, Executive Account Manager, Schneider Electric and Phillip Marangella, Chief Marketing Officer of colocation provider EdgeConneX chat about how, while we’re all currently separated, we’re working from the same place: the edge.
With work, school and entertainment taking place partially at home for the foreseeable future, plus corresponding demand for IoT, automation and cloud, compute power closer to end points and end users is imperative. The edge is growing “at breakneck speed,” according to Phillip.
He says, “We’re seeing a lot of need for expansion and are helping customers understand where the market is going. As we fulfill edge deployments, we are a good barometer for the evolving scope.”
Redefining the Edge
He goes on to say that customers are re-defining the edge. The meaning varies. “From micro data centers in a tier two or three markets, or on a farm, at an airport or in a tier 1 market, the meaning varies. The edge is flexible and must be adjust to each customer’s specific requirements.”
He believes the multi-directional nature of the edge — how the core and the edge interconnect — will support the digital ecosystem we’re in the midst of.
How to Keep Up With Demand for Edge Data Centers
Technology demands change quickly during normal times, and the current situation has accelerated the pace. Lily pointed out that EdgeConneX operates a model in which speed to market is paramount. Phillip says they don’t build and then fill, they build with demand. The company’s fastest delivery was three and a half months, and the average is six to nine.
He credits strong partnerships with suppliers as key to success. “If you’re working closely with manufacturers, explaining lead times and are beyond the old bid/buy approach, you’ll be more successful — especially in times when supply chain is tenuous,” he says.
Listen to the Full Conversation on Working from the Edge
Lily and Phillip explore more facets of the distributed IT and touch on the state of the network — including what 5G might bring to the edge. Listen to the Data Center Tech Bytes podcast now.
