Software-Defined Data Center (SDDC) – Solutions for Modern Apps in the Cloud

Members of the IT industry are all talking about the new concept of a software-defined data center (SDDC). But many wonder, how is this different than a traditional data center? Is it indeed revolutionary?

Some think the SDDC is an extension of existing physical assets, but at its core, it frees the application layer from the physical infrastructure layer. This allows for a wide range of uses including deploying, managing, storing, computing and networking various business applications in the cloud.

Here we’re examining the software-defined data center industry and identifying what makes SDDC solutions truly revolutionary.

Application Layer Focus with Customization and Automation for Business Applications

So, what’s the real difference between this data center and hardware at the office? The software-defined data center frees the application from the hardware layer. Computing as we know it is about to make a quantum leap to data centers that can live in multiple physical locations.

The software-defined data center is a unified data center platform that helps transform the way companies deliver IT with automation, efficiency, and flexibility. It’s built for the cloud and geared toward modern applications. This platform is ideal for businesses interested in modernizing without the expense of a physical overhaul.

True to Its Name – Defined in Software

The software-defined data center is exactly what it states – defined in software. Deployment, management of applications, and virtualizedcomputing storage and networks exist as software.

Allow someone else to own the hardware, guards, gas, batteries, generators, and employ the hundreds of people to service them. Software-defined data centers can be pursued now and deliver a return on investment one application at a time – not one physical data center at a time.

Companies Migrate Specific Applications

Organizations aren’t migrating entire data centers to the cloud. They migrate specific applications that collectively perform a business function. Using the application as a target allows IT departments to get instant ROI when they deploy and migrate their first cloud application.

A more agile approach uses cloud containers to avoid involving existing physical assets and infrastructure. SDDC architecture allows for containers with business systems of record and systems of engagement within the context of integration and security. This allows companies to use virtualization principles of pooling, abstraction, and automation so it’s cloud-ready.

No More Data Center Limitations

Limitations to SDDCs previously included physical constraints and a lack of application-layer focus. Companies were leery of sending applications to the cloud without proper context for governance, security, and integration.

While cloud computing saves money, is more efficient, and has more raw computing power, containers take it a step further by allowing IT teams to migrate, deploy, and control apps within the cloud.

The SDDC of the Future

The software-defined data center is a proper solution for cloud customization and integration. Companies can use the growing number of virtualized services, networks, and APIs to grow their data centers beyond their physical walls one cloud container at a time.

The SDDCs of the future will offer a cross-cloud connection with cloud-deployed data centers, existing data centers, and all virtualized elements in between. To make SDDC solutions a reality for companies, certain features must be provided and certain objectives met.

A true software-defined data center will be:

·         Adaptive

·         Automated

·         Holistic

·         Resilient

·         Standardized

SDDC solutions will contain features including:

·         File system virtualization

·         Image automation

·         Network virtualization

·         Topology automation

·         Topology centric services

These are key to customizing, automating, and controlling application-focused features. Then companies can securely transition to the cloud and use SDDC architecture to innovate with greater utilization, resiliency, and cost savings on a common platform. 

7 IT Consulting Rules to Master

IT consulting gurus understand the business isn’t all about golfing and happy hours. Expert IT consulting services involve thankless work, unexpected detours, and changing goals.

However, as an IT consultant or IT economist, the job can be fulfilling as you improve your client’s bottom line. While there’s no exact guidebook for IT consulting, here we’re gathering a few pro tips and ideas to enhance your IT consulting services and gain the respect of clients.

1.    The Client Defines Success – Not You

Each project brings its own IT consulting hurdles and challenges to deliver the right solution on time and on budget. But keep in mind, with each contract you sign, the client is the hero and they define success.

As a consultant, your role is a mentor. The goal is guiding your clients to ensure they succeed on their terms. You may be held to a definition of success made by multiple parties involved in the project – the IT manager, the production manager, inventory specialists, CFO, and more. Every person may have a different goal in mind.

2.    Actively Listen to All Vantage Points

Each player in a project has an issue to be solved. Actively listen to understand the role and environment of each person.

At the same time, be discerning. Some feedback may be speculation and fantasy. Be aware, but don’t dwell on them. Take note of unusual or unexpected issues that come up. These could double as a problem and an opportunity.

3.    Respect Your Client’s Privacy and Reputation

Never mention your client’s name to others without permission. They may not want other groups, including their competitors, knowing they work with you. Talking about other clients who use your IT consulting services can sometimes come back to haunt you.

4.    Keep Up the Momentum

Certain stages of a project may be technical and require more time to absorb. Give yourself and the client time, but be mindful of momentum.

Don’t wait too long to connect. Take smaller steps if needed to keep moving in the right direction.

5.    Maintain Great Communication

Connections stay strong through effective and responsive communication. Don’t waste anyone’s time with unnecessary meetings and don’t waste a client’s time with unnecessary requests. Above all, don’t waste your own time doing nonproductive activities, even when requested by the client.

6.    Always Be Truthful

Speak the truth, even when they don’t want to hear it. The truth should be a window of opportunity, not a hammer.

While no one wants to receive bad news, especially if it results from their actions, the news still needs to be delivered. Remember, it’s not your job to shield your client from unpleasant facts.

7.    Turn the Other Cheek

Regardless of if the project ends as planned or unexpectedly, be grateful for the trust and work received. Make sure the client has everything they need to continue without you and always keep a professional and helpful demeanor.

Looking for professional IT consulting services? We can help. Get in touch with Advanced Systems Group to learn more.