Ascent

Check Your Blind Spots: Unleashing Your Building Management Systems Potential

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 21:49:18 +0000

Most data centers rely on Building Management Systems (BMS) to monitor and control critical infrastructure, but few fully utilize the operational efficiencies these systems can deliver. The common challenge? Your blind spots. While BMS tools are essential to any operation, focusing solely on failure prevention is like never checking the rearview mirror, which can lead to missed opportunities.

Typically, these challenges fall into two categories: validity and reliability. Validity issues stem from inaccurate or unverified data, leading to poor decision-making — especially as AI becomes more integrated with BMS systems. Calibration errors in sensors, actuator discrepancies, and improper tuning of chilled water systems are just a few examples of how unreliable data can result in inefficiencies.

Conversely, reliability issues arise when the BMS itself is not dependable. Weak failover capabilities, faulty sensors, and outdated network infrastructure can compromise a data center’s ability to respond to critical events, putting operations at risk.

Data center operators can implement routine system audits, improve collaboration, and invest in team training to bridge these gaps. By addressing validity and reliability challenges, a BMS can be transformed from an essential monitoring tool into a strategic asset — driving efficiency, reducing costs, and maximizing uptime.

Learn how to optimize your Building Management Systems. Read the full article here.

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Strategies for Long-Term Operational Excellence in Your Mission Critical Facility

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 19:35:28 +0000

Operational excellence is the foundation of any successful mission critical facility. Downtime can’t become a reality as a data center or critical facility. To maintain uptime, mission critical facilities must implement strategic best practices that optimize, protect, and adapt to evolving pressures and needs.

Here are four key strategies to achieve long-term operation excellence:

Assess Before You Stress

You don’t know what you don’t know, which is precisely why it’s key to have a comprehensive evaluation of your facility’s infrastructure, processes, and systems that include risk identification, energy efficiency opportunities, and gaps in operations. These assessments help identify vulnerabilities and inefficiencies that might have previously flown under the radar. By regularly reviewing electrical and mechanical power systems, overall infrastructure and monitoring system connectivity, facility managers can proactively ensure optimal performance with strategic foresight. Additionally, assessments help optimize and improve power usage and align operations to sustain expected performance and reliability in a mission critical environment.

Embrace Preventative Maintenance

Do you enjoy putting out fires as they happen? Or would you prefer to extinguish any possibility of one before it has the chance to take place? Maintenance, in and of itself, is one of the most critical aspects of ensuring uptime, but only if it can be predictive and preventative. Adopting preventative maintenance strategies reduces the likelihood of any significant failures or repairs. By physically servicing equipment, you can more easily maintain asset longevity, which produces better performance and can help detect potential issues before a disruption even happens.

Put People First

Invest in people who are there for your operations 24×7, 365 days per year. The human component is often the most critical yet forgotten component of long-term operational excellence. Mission critical facility staff need to be well-trained, continuously updated on best practices, and available to support your facility when it needs it most. Find an experienced operational team that administers, monitors, and coordinates maintenance and service operations and who are up all night, so you don’t have to be.

Navigate More Easily

The thought of monitoring maintenance activities, equipment performance, and their related costs 24×7 might send your compass into a tailspin. Thankfully, there is an easier way. Ascent’s Navigator Platform delivers operational transparency into maintenance activities by combining people, processes, and innovative tools, providing a single-source solution for operational uptime and performance excellence.

Achieving long-term operational excellence in a mission critical facility in today’s advancing technological era requires a combination of strategies. By implementing assessments, preventative maintenance, investing in people, and continuously training staff, you can create a robust and resilient operation. As technology and business demands evolve, staying proactive and future-proofing your facility will ensure its ongoing success and reliability.

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Ascent Enters New Era: Combines with Wesco International

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 16:37:30 +0000

Ascent is thrilled to join Wesco International, a company that shares our commitment to empowering customers through expertise, experience, and innovation. Wesco International builds, connects, powers and protects the world. Headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Wesco is a FORTUNE 500® company with $22 billion in annual sales and a leading provider of business-to-business distribution, logistics services and supply chain solutions. Wesco offers a best-in-class product and services portfolio of Electrical and Electronic Solutions, Communications and Security Solutions, and Utility and Broadband Solutions.

Recently celebrating 25 years in business, Ascent has established itself as a true industry leader. From engineering and construction to maintenance and operations, we proudly span the entire lifecycle of a data center or mission critical facility. By coming together, Ascent and Wesco will elevate and innovate to provide customers with robust yet trusted solutions while bringing our values and capabilities to new heights.

Our core mission remains the same: complete client focus. As we integrate with Wesco, we want to ensure our focus on safety, availability, customer service, and innovation will continue to drive every decision we make.

“Since 1998, Ascent has continued to grow and evolve,” commented Robert Painter, President of Ascent. “We’re a dynamic company that’s entering into its next era and one that strategically aligns with our values and goals to innovate and strengthen our data center services offerings for the future.”

Bill Geary, Executive Vice President and General Manager, Wesco Communications and Security Solutions, had this to say:

“With more than 300 employees in the United States and Canada, Ascent’s strong team, innovative technology, and extensive customer base make it an ideal pairing with Wesco Data Center Solutions. This acquisition will allow us to further extend our end-to-end service offerings — including advanced liquid cooling solutions — in collaboration with our supplier and contractor partners to meet the demands of the rapidly growing data center market.”

Ascent is excited to enter our newest company evolution and to do so with Wesco. Together, we’re ready to deliver even more value and make a bigger impact for our customers. Our complete client focus will only be strengthened by this partnership, allowing us to continue to deliver the high-quality service and solutions that our customers expect. We thank you for your continued trust and partnership and look forward to the future.

The completion of the acquisition was announced on December 6. Read the latest here.

To read the acquisition announcement press release, click here.

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Internal IT Controls and Documentation in Mission Critical Facilities

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 18:03:05 +0000

Welcome back to Ascent’s new blog series, where we’re delving into the IT networks on which traditional data center building infrastructure operates. In our fourth and final blog, we’re addressing the mechanical, electrical, fire protection, and security systems, all of which run through digital controls and automation systems that support mission critical computing inside data centers.

If you have not read any of the three previous blogs, click here to head back to the beginning of the series.

In the complex landscape of multi-tenant facilities, the absence of stringent internal controls and comprehensive documentation can pose significant risks to stability, security and operational integrity. This dilemma is particularly acute in environments where multiple tenants exist within the same infrastructure, creating a dynamic and potentially vulnerable ecosystem.

Challenges in Multi-Tenant Environments

Within multi-tenant facilities, the lack of robust internal controls can lead to a cascade of operational challenges. Without clear documentation and change management procedures, it becomes difficult to monitor modifications effectively and ensure adherence to security protocols across diverse tenants. This potentially compromises the overall reliability and security of the facility.

Over time, this lack of oversight can undermine the very foundation of mission critical operations. Inadequate process controls erode the ability to maintain a stable and secure environment, exposing critical systems to risks such as misconfigurations, unauthorized changes, and security breaches.

Navigating Asset Tracking Complexity

One of the most pressing consequences of deficient internal controls is the challenge of accurate IT asset tracking. Without comprehensive documentation, IT teams may struggle to trace changes effectively or maintain an up-to-date inventory of assets. This can lead to delays in identifying and resolving issues, heightening the risk of downtime and service disruptions. Unauthorized changes occurring due to insufficient change management procedures, further exacerbate security vulnerabilities and operational instability.

Personnel Dynamics and Operational Risks

Personnel turnover and evolving infrastructure introduce additional layers of complexity and risk. New employees, unfamiliar with existing processes and protocols, may inadvertently introduce inconsistencies or errors into critical systems. This lack of continuity can manifest as misconfigurations, performance bottlenecks, or unforeseen security gaps, eroding the reliability and resilience of mission-critical facilities.

Mitigating Risks Through Proactive Measures

To mitigate these challenges, mission critical facilities must prioritize the implementation of robust internal IT controls and comprehensive documentation practices. This includes establishing clear policies and procedures for change management, configuration tracking, and asset inventory management. Furthermore, continuous training and education programs can ensure that personnel remain informed and compliant with established protocols.

By fostering a culture of accountability and transparency, facilities can minimize the risk of human error and fortify the integrity of their IT infrastructure. Proactive measures empower organizations to navigate the complexities of multi-tenant environments with confidence, safeguarding mission critical operations against the erosive effects of inadequate controls and documentation.

To learn more about the challenges relating to the convergence of mission critical facilities and enterprise IT operations, click here to download our white paper, Modernizing Mission Critical Facilities: Bridging the Gap Between IT and Critical Infrastructure.

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The Challenges of Rapid Growth and Transformation in Mission Critical Facilities

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 19:07:09 +0000

Welcome to the third blog of our four-part series, where we have taken an extensive look at the IT networks on which traditional data center building infrastructure operates, and will now review common challenges of mission critical facilities in the wake of digital growth and transformation. If you missed our previous two blogs, please click here to head back to the beginning of the series.

The evolution and expansion of businesses, particularly in the aftermath of pivotal events like the pandemic, or the arrival of new technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), can exert significant strain on the infrastructure of mission critical facilities. This strain introduces complexities in Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM), often resulting in outdated inventories and inefficient operations. The surge in digital transformation initiatives amid evolving market demands further amplifies these challenges, necessitating robust solutions to effectively manage and optimize data center resources.

One of the primary issues arising from business growth is the mismatch between infrastructure capabilities and expanding operational needs. This disconnect can lead to inefficiencies in resource allocation and utilization within data centers, impacting performance and scalability. Moreover, workforce shortages have highlighted the critical need for streamlined processes and scalable solutions to bridge operational gaps and ensure operational continuity.

In response to these challenges, organizations are increasingly turning towards advanced DCIM tools and technologies. These solutions offer comprehensive insights into data center operations, facilitating real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, and proactive maintenance. Here, we’ll cover some key areas wherein businesses can enhance operational efficiency, mitigate risks associated with aging infrastructure, and optimize resource utilization to meet evolving demands effectively.

Integration of Artificial Intelligence

AI is rapidly transforming mission critical facilities, yet its implementation poses significant IT infrastructure management challenges. The pace of business growth and digital transformation initiatives demands that IT infrastructure scales to meet heightened demands. However, this rapid growth often outstrips IT teams’ capacity to effectively manage infrastructure, resulting in discrepancies in DCIM and outdated inventories. This manifests in hastily provisioned equipment and inefficient execution of move, add, and change procedures.

Addressing Workforce Shortages

Personnel shortages compound these challenges, as IT teams struggle to cope with increasing workloads. Existing personnel are expected to handle significantly larger volumes of data, leading to inefficiencies and potential bottlenecks in infrastructure management. Without streamlined processes and scalable solutions, mission critical facilities may struggle to adapt to evolving operational needs.

Ensuring Scalability

Today’s rapid transformation scenarios often necessitate scalable IT infrastructure to accommodate increased demand while ensuring reliability and security. As businesses expand into new markets, introduce new products, or undergo mergers and acquisitions, their IT needs evolve rapidly, straining existing infrastructure and processes.

A primary challenge associated with rapid growth is the scalability of IT infrastructure. Traditional architectures may struggle to keep up with increasing demands, resulting in performance issues, downtime, and disruptions. Legacy systems, for instance, may lack the flexibility needed to support dynamic workloads or sudden traffic spikes, leading to degraded performance.

Effective Infrastructure Management

Another critical challenge is the management of data center infrastructure to align with changing business needs. As businesses grow, their data center requirements evolve, often necessitating upgrades or expansions. However, managing these changes effectively demands meticulous planning, coordination, and execution, which can be daunting in fast-paced environments.

The compounded impact of personnel shortages further intensifies these challenges, delaying essential changes or upgrades which in turn leave mission critical facilities vulnerable to downtime and security threats. To address these issues, facilities must invest in scalable solutions, optimize processes, and prioritize workforce development to ensure adaptability to changing business demands.

The ecosystem of business operations currently demands a proactive approach to data center infrastructure management. By addressing the complexities introduced by growth and transformation with innovative solutions, organizations can navigate challenges more effectively and position themselves for sustained success in a dynamic market environment.

If your organization is interested in more information on making sure your data center operation is keeping pace with rapid business growth, click here to download our whitepaper, Modernizing Mission Critical Facilities: Bridging the Gap Between IT Infrastructure and Building Infrastructure.

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Aligning Mindsets and Expertise in Mission Critical Facilities

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 17:22:46 +0000

Welcome back to Ascent’s latest blog series, where we’re delving into the IT networks on which traditional data center building infrastructure operates. In today’s data center environment, hiring traditional contractors can present challenges when it comes to managing building infrastructure IT effectively. Why? Unlike standard office IT setups, these environments demand a different approach to ensure minimal downtime, redundancy and stringent security measures. Traditional IT practices often fall short in meeting these specialized requirements.

Divergent Practices Impact Operations

The key obstacle in updating networks that run building infrastructure lies in reconciling traditional IT methodologies with the distinct needs of data center operations. While outsourced IT firms excel in standard office IT management, they may struggle to adapt to the rigorous demands of mission-critical settings. Unlike typical setups, mission-critical operations prioritize minimal downtime, robust redundancy and high-security protocols. This necessitates a shift in mindset and expertise towards proactive maintenance, comprehensive risk assessment, and strict change management.

Challenges in Integration and Management

While equipment vendors specializing in mission critical infrastructure excel in providing hardware solutions, their expertise in IT integration and management may be limited. As a result, mission critical facilities may face challenges in ensuring that the deployed infrastructure meets their operations’ stringent requirements. The mismatch between traditional IT practices and mission critical operations can have far-reaching consequences for facility uptime, security, and efficiency. Traditional IT approaches, focused on maximizing cost-savings and flexibility, may not adequately address the unique needs of mission critical facilities, where downtime is not an option and security is paramount.

For instance, conventional IT teams may prioritize cost efficiency over redundancy, opting for single points of failure rather than investing in redundant systems and failover mechanisms. While suitable for non-critical environments, this approach poses substantial risks in mission-critical facilities where service disruptions can have severe consequences. Similarly, traditional IT practices may prioritize ease of use over security, potentially leading to vulnerabilities.

Varied Levels of Expertise

Another issue arises from the varied expertise levels within manufacturer teams supporting mission-critical installations. Often times the field engineers dispatched by manufacturers to oversee mechanical and electrical installations focus solely on their equipment and may lack mission critical experience or expertise in the related IT network and software aspects. For example, technicians deployed to support a switchgear installation may have expertise in their own software, but may not have experience integrating it into a mission critical building automation system.

Addressing the Divide

To bridge the gap between traditional IT practices and mission-critical operations, facilities must prioritize specialized expertise and proactive risk management. This involves collaborating with vendors and service providers who grasp the unique requirements of mission-critical environments and can offer tailored solutions. It also necessitates a cultural shift within organizations, emphasizing collaboration, transparency and accountability across IT and critical infrastructure teams.

By aligning practices and priorities, facilities can ensure that their IT infrastructure is robust, resilient and capable of supporting mission-critical operations effectively.

Interested in more insights addressing the convergence of mission critical facilities and enterprise IT operations? Click here to download our white paper, Modernizing IT Infrastructure & Building Management Systems in Critical Facilities.

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Unifying Fragmented Networks and Infrastructure in Mission Critical Facilities

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 15:18:59 +0000

Welcome to Ascent’s latest blog series, where we dive into the IT networks on which traditional data center building infrastructure operates. These are the mechanical, electrical, fire protection, and security systems, all of which run through digital controls and automation systems, that support mission critical computing inside data centers. Throughout this four-part series, we will address common challenges that arise when IT infrastructure and building infrastructure meet.

The ecosystem of mission critical facilities often features a patchwork of networks, each established by different subcontractors or specialized teams, that have the potential to result in fragmented and inefficient systems. This lack of cohesion extends to hardware and configuration standards, compounding complexity and impeding effective management and maintenance.

Diverse Networks, Siloed Systems

Building infrastructure in mission critical facilities, which encompasses everything from electrical to mechanical systems, typically operates on segregated IT networks. These networks, often set up by distinct subcontractors or specialized construction units, create isolated systems lacking interoperability.

For example, a typical facility might deploy separate networks for electrical, mechanical, fire safety, lighting, digital signage, security, office operations, and guest Wi-Fi. Each network may also rely on different technologies, exacerbating integration and management challenges.

Challenges of Network Fragmentation

Consider a recent hyperscale consolidation project that grappled with significant operational hurdles due to non-standardized network infrastructure. With over 90 network switches and 30 physical servers supporting various building control systems, seamless operation and maintenance became elusive.

The most glaring issues emerged in the electrical management software, which controlled multiple banks of electrical switchgear. Installed independently over several years, these systems operated in isolation without communication. The absence of standardized hardware, configuration and cybersecurity further compounded the challenges, underscoring the necessity of a unified management strategy.

Fragmented networks not only complicate management and maintenance but also heighten security risks and operational disruptions. Each network operates independently, making it challenging to monitor and manage interdependencies among systems.

The Risks of Non-Standardization

The absence of standardized hardware in mission-critical data center facilities poses risks that can impact reliability, efficiency, and maintenance. One of the primary concerns is compatibility issues among different hardware components from various manufacturers. This lack of uniformity can lead to challenges in integration and scalability, hindering the seamless operation of critical systems.

Without standardized hardware, troubleshooting and maintenance become complex tasks. Technicians may encounter difficulties in diagnosing and resolving issues promptly due to the diverse nature of equipment deployed. This can result in human error, increased downtime and potential disruptions to essential services.

Additionally, non-standardized hardware can impede effective resource management. It may limit the ability to optimize power consumption, cooling efficiency and overall space utilization within the data center environment.

Finally, the absence of standardization can impact security measures. Varying hardware configurations might introduce vulnerabilities that are harder to manage consistently across the infrastructure. This diversity can further complicate security patching and updates.

A Unified Approach to Infrastructure Management

To overcome these challenges, mission critical facilities must adopt a holistic approach to IT and infrastructure management. This involves consolidating disparate networks into a unified platform, standardizing hardware and configuration settings, and implementing robust cybersecurity measures.

By breaking down silos and promoting collaboration between IT and infrastructure teams, facilities can streamline operations, enhance security, and bolster resilience for scalability. This integrated strategy is crucial for maintaining efficiency and continuity in mission-critical environments.

For more informational insights into the convergence of mission critical facilities and enterprise IT operations, download our white paper, Modernizing IT Infrastructure & Building Management Systems in Critical Facilities.

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How to Jumpstart Your Data Center Career: Insights from Matt Rekart – Ascent’s Director of Site Services

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 19:33:45 +0000

The data center industry is thriving, with demand expected to double by 2030! If joining this fast-growing industry is of interest, this blog is for you! With more than 20 years of experience in the industry, Matt Rekart, Director of Site Services, provides his best recommendations and tips on how to jumpstart your data center career.

Pursue education and training: Consider obtaining a degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Additionally, participate in industry-specific training programs, workshops, or online courses to keep up with the latest trends and technologies in the data center industry.

Gain a solid foundation in Information Technology (IT): Start by building a strong understanding of IT fundamentals. This includes knowledge of computer hardware, networking, operating systems, and database management.

Obtain relevant certifications: Consider obtaining industry-recognized certifications that demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field. Some well-known certifications in the data center industry include Certified Data Center Professional (CDCP), Certified Data Center Specialist (CDCS), and Data Center Infrastructure Specialist (DCIS), CompTIA A+, Network+, and Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) can help establish a strong foundation.

Focus on data center-specific skills: Familiarize yourself with the specific technologies and tools used in data center operations. This includes knowledge of server hardware, virtualization, storage systems, data backup and recovery, network infrastructure, security protocols, and cooling and power management systems.

Seek practical experience: Look for entry-level positions at data centers or IT departments within organizations. Practical experience will help you apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios and gain a deeper understanding of data center operations.

Develop problem-solving and troubleshooting skills: Data center operations often involve identifying and resolving technical issues quickly. Cultivate strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills by practicing on hands-on projects, participating in coding competitions, or joining IT communities where you can collaborate with experienced professionals.

Stay updated with industry trends: The data center industry is rapidly evolving, with new technologies and best practices emerging regularly. Stay informed about the latest trends, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), cloud computing, and sustainability initiatives. Engage in continuous learning by following industry blogs, attending conferences, and joining relevant professional organizations.

Networking and professional connections: Build a professional network by attending industry events like Data Center World, Data Center Dynamics Events, International Telecoms Week (ITW) + more and connecting with professionals already working in the data center industry. Networking can provide valuable insights, mentorship opportunities, and potential job leads.

Emphasize soft skills: Along with technical skills, develop strong soft skills such as communication, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving. Data center operations often involve collaboration with diverse teams, effective communication with stakeholders, and the ability to adapt to changing requirements.

Continuously learn and adapt: The data center industry is dynamic, and new technologies and best practices will continue to emerge. Maintain a mindset of continuous learning, be adaptable to new challenges, and seek opportunities for professional development throughout your career.

Interested in a data center career with Ascent? View our open positions here and apply today!

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A Legacy of Leadership in Mission Critical Facility Support

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 12:19:58 +0000

Recapping 25 Years of Excellence in Mission Critical Facility Support

As we conclude our legacy of leadership blog series, commemorating 25 years of unwavering dedication and support to our customers’ data center and critical facility needs, we reflect on the invaluable insights and milestones that have shaped our journey.

It is truly an exciting time, and we are particularly grateful for our customers, whom it has been a distinct honor to serve for this quarter-century, as well as our senior staff and employees, all of whom have played key roles in helping us deliver top-of-the-line solutions to our customers. We would like to say a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to both groups and to offer this summary of what we are celebrating.

Since our founding in 1998, our team has grown to include engineering, facility operations, maintenance contracting and services, IT site services, and more, across the U.S. and Canada — and we are only continuing to grow. While our mission has always been one of managing and maintaining mission critical equipment, we’ve refined this mission over the years to one of improving critical facility reliability, finding customer savings, and implementing value-added strategies. Additionally, we’ve expanded our suite of services to cover data center engineering and turnkey project delivery, data center construction, operations, and maintenance management.

All of which has facilitated not merely servicing our clients but empowering them in their efforts to achieve optimal operational efficiency.

Data centers can only function effectively when compliant IT solutions and fault-tolerant, reliable products are in place—and Ascent takes pride in enabling our customers to achieve this. In the ecosystem of data centers, the relationship between Information Technology (IT) and facilities management has become increasingly central to operations and overall functionality. As this industry has evolved, the complexity of the role of IT in business, infrastructure, and facilities has expanded dramatically. Not only has Ascent positioned itself at the forefront of this shift, but we have tailored solutions for customers to meet the associated challenges.

One of Ascent’s technological achievements and cornerstone has been the development of the Navigator Platform for Data Center Operations. This one-of-a-kind platform was created in response to customer feedback and the need to support our customers’ critical infrastructure and facilities. On the drawing board, its original function was to aggregate data centers’ facilities and equipment systems. Since its inception, however, the Navigator Platform has expanded far beyond its initial capabilities.

Today, the Navigator Platform gives our customers real-time visibility into their data centers and critical facility operations. It provides customized data across various critical sites, design topologies and work management systems, and can be customized to a business’s technical and financial requirements. Once implemented, the Navigator platform allows the Ascent team to oversee business intelligence so that our customers can focus on their core business.

With the advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) and their rapid integration into the market, we have been working closely with our customers as they move to support the rapidly changing infrastructure requirements of these technologies. The demand in the market for AI is now driving time-to-market demands on mission-critical contractors in a way that the Data Center Market has never seen before.

In addition to our commitment to innovation, Ascent has always sought to reduce risk, increase uptime, find cost savings for our customers and implement value-added strategies to their operations while keeping safety and satisfaction as top priorities. With our continued growth, we plan to keep our customers’ needs as our priority, using our aggregated experience and collective expertise to address the ongoing challenges our customers face in their mission-critical facilities.

For more about our 25^th Anniversary & Legacy of Leadership blog series, please follow us on LinkedIn by clicking here.

Keep in touch! Sign up for our quarterly newsletter here.

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Leadership Perspectives: 25 Years with Chris Askew

Mon, 06 May 2024 14:36:04 +0000

Navigating the Convergence: Ascent’s Turn-Key IT Solutions and Services in the Ever-Evolving Data Center Landscape with Chris Askew

As part of Ascent’s “Leadership Perspectives” blog series, I’m excited to share my experiences and viewpoint of how the industry has evolved in the last 25 years. Specifically, how IT services are at the forefront of consideration for customers, now more than ever.

In the dynamic world of data centers, the symbiotic relationship between Information Technology (IT) and facilities management has become increasingly crucial. This interconnectedness is further exemplified by Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM) systems, which seamlessly link the IT load to optimized facility operations. As the industry evolves, the role of IT has expanded, and Ascent has not only recognized this shift but has taken proactive steps to address the changing landscape.

The onset of the global pandemic acted as a catalyst, bringing IT and facilities even closer together. With a substantial impact on IT staffing and service delivery, the pandemic underscored the need for a more integrated and responsive approach to support the evolving needs of mission critical facilities.

In response to this paradigm shift, Ascent identified a growing need for turn-key IT site services to provide comprehensive support to customers navigating the complexities of changing work models, work windows, and workforce dynamics. This foresight led to the inception of a new suite of services designed to meet the evolving demands of the data center landscape.

Leveraging our extensive expertise in data center challenges and a deep understanding of the pivotal role played by IT in this environment, Ascent is uniquely positioned to fully support the IT needs of mission critical facilities. Our comprehensive services cover everything from IT Data Center Operations, SmartHands, and network cabling within the racks to overseeing DCIM systems that monitor both IT and physical infrastructure. We extend our support to the technology facilitating building automation, security, management, and controls.

Data centers can only operate safely and efficiently when equipped with compliant IT solutions and fault-tolerant, always-online products. Ascent takes pride in enabling our customers to achieve just that. Our turn-key IT services are designed to securely integrate with the intricate web of technologies that power mission critical facilities, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.

Ascent is no stranger to the constant flux of technology, especially in today’s bandwidth hungry world. We understand that the one constant is actually change, and we are dedicated to developing our in-house expertise across new technology solutions. This commitment ensures that our clients benefit not only from our current capabilities but also from our ongoing efforts to anticipate and adapt to the evolving needs of the data center landscape.

As I reflect on how much the data center industry has changed over the course of the last 25 years, with its abundant future looming on the horizon, one thing remains clear — Ascent remains dedicated to empowering and supporting our client’s mission critical facilities with solutions that deliver confidence and efficiency.

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