puzzle-526404_640Infrastructure can be one of the greatest capital expenditures a company makes when it comes to IT services. The requirements are many; floor space, power grids, and support and maintenance contracts are just a few examples. If you are transitioning from one system to another, the enterprise software issues can be just as demanding.

Modularity

What companies need to meet the demands of 21st century computing are modular systems. Instead of one or two massive machines that occupy considerable floor space, components are mounted on racks and connected to one another. This brings a great amount of flexibility to computing structure, as it can be downsized or expanded without a significant amount of time or expense required.

Cloud computing is placing more demands on hardware systems, and the era of cloud computing is just beginning. To remain competitive, companies need to expand their system capacity rapidly. Modular systems have been the most efficient solution to this problem.

In moving forward, modular systems have become more portable and flexible. How long do you think it would take to install and deploy a full scale, enterprise ready computer infrastructure? Currently there are companies who can accomplish the feat in 12 weeks. Modular systems are being designed that can be built outside of the physical building and withstand winds of a Category 5 hurricane force.

The short summary is that tremendous computing power can be available to a company that has the physical space, inside or outside, can provide a huge data footprint, and is both flexible and expandable for a lower cost when compared to traditional hard wired systems.

What About Older Legacy Systems?

Making full scale changes to a company’s infrastructure is not a decision that can be made overnight, nor is it necessary with modular systems. Part of their flexibility is that they can be attached to existing legacy systems for the purposes of expansion or a measured transition to a completely modular system. Instead of taking on a substantial capital expenditure, companies can gradually and calmly make the transition without any system downtime. This allows for the continuation of business and employees are able to conduct business as usual.

What Is The Reality Of Modular Infrastructure For My Business?

The concept of modularity in computing has existed in software for decades. The basic logic to designing modular software is that it is easier to maintain, modify, and add features to when needed. It does not require the entire application to be rewritten. Modular infrastructure follows the same logic, but is more flexible and portable than traditional hardware systems.

What this means for the small business that is growing is that a basic modular system can be installed and ready for a cost far less than was possible a decade ago. With cloud computing placing greater demands on hardware systems, a growing business needs a system that can expand upon demand. Consider the company that can have an enterprise class system up and running in twelve weeks. Apply that timeframe to your own company’s potential need for immediate expansion.

Businesses need to be able to meet the demands of their customers, and much of that demand is taking place from mobile devices as well as in business growth into new industries and sectors. The ability of a modular infrastructure to go where it needs to be and can be operational in weeks instead of months is becoming more essential for businesses of all sizes.