Major Project to relocate IT Infrastructure

“The task of moving seemed insurmountable at times, as we couldn’t find any available space that had outside ventilation, noise control, a pathway large enough to handle all the wiring, and did not violate any of the [building's] Grade 1 requirements. 

Flex drew up the plans, including proper ventilation and other environmental concerns, power, lighting, recommended a second rack to better spread the equipment and, after all design and costs were approved, executed the plan with excellence – on time and on budget.  

The transformation was simply amazing. Most importantly, [because there is no longer the unbearable noise and heat], the College got the use of their Computer Lab back.  

I couldn’t have been happier with this project managed by Jamie.”

Quote from Stuart Alper, Associate Vice President & CTO - Fairleigh Dickinson University.

Fairleigh Dickinson University, a long-standing client, was in need of upgrading their wireless network of nearly 100 access points and adding a local server array to their infrastructure. However, the location of the existing equipment was unsuitable because of the heat and noise that would be created.

We worked with the Head of IT Services and the Director of Networking in the USA to develop a plan and timescales. It was decided that a new computer room should be set up to accommodate both the existing central network data cabinet and a new cabinet for the servers and UPS systems.

This project took place in a Grade 1 listed building, which required us to comply with strict construction and access regulations. Therefore, cabling runs and air conditioning ducting were very limited.

The Project required careful planning and substantial effort from Flex to ensure that student studies were not affected. It required the involvement of not only the IT team in the USA but also the local academic staff, the Dean, College Administration and Maintenance In addition several third-party trades were needed to complete the project - electricians, data cabling installers, carpenters, builders and painters. So, a multidisciplinary team was involved, all being coordinated by the team at Flex.

Jamie Read led the project, coordinating all stakeholders to maintain the schedule and keep the IT infrastructure fully operational. Clear communication was critical to ensure the project progressed smoothly.

In essence we needed to convert this into a computer room.

 
Like This!

 
And to give an idea of what a busy data cabinet looks like.
 

Conclusion

The client was very satisfied with the result. The project was completed on time, and all expectations were met.