Methodology for Implementing Modular Data Centers

Before starting this chapter, the author poses several questions to prompt readers to consider the differing understandings and drivers of modularity among consulting design firms, equipment suppliers, and integration solution providers, and how to coordinate their timelines.

The author introduces the crucial concept of standardization, arguing that modularity must be repeatable and thus standardized; otherwise, it lacks practical value. Standardization is defined as the data‑center standardization process, encompassing both design and construction phases.

Consulting design firms contribute standardized design, while equipment suppliers and integration solution providers deliver standardized prefabrication. An analogy compares standardized design to a doctor’s prescription and standardized prefabrication to the manufactured pill derived from that prescription.

Using the domestic “micro‑module” approach as an example, the author shows that it mainly achieves standardized design, not prefabrication, unless additional on‑site prefabrication (e.g., cable trays) is performed. In contrast, container data centers, built from factory‑pre‑assembled modules, exemplify standardized prefabrication.

The author classifies data‑center equipment into ICT and facility categories, mapping them onto a matrix of standardized design versus standardized prefabrication to illustrate the overall standardization process.

Applying this standardization process, the author analyzes major internet companies:

Google: a timeline of its data‑center evolution demonstrates high standardization across all components.

Microsoft: similar high standardization is observed, with references to official videos.

Facebook: also shows a high degree of standardization when evaluated with the same matrix.

For colocation providers, the author examines Digital Realty Trust (DRT) and its POD 3.0 architecture, noting that such providers lack the custom ICT development capabilities of internet firms, leading to lower overall standardization but higher focus on mechanical‑electrical modules.

The discussion concludes that while internet companies achieve high standardization due to control over ICT design, colocation and managed‑hosting providers differ in capabilities, influencing their modularization strategies.