I’d like to continue on our journey and build out the model that we have described starting at the bottom of my model and moving towards the top. The first thing we should do is change the name of layer 1. Some have pointed out to me that while the facilities is an important element, this block is going to cover a lot more than just the facilities and we should change its name. I’d like to propose physical plant (which is a very familiar term to facilities folks) and see if this encompasses what lies ahead.

Figure 1 – Cloud Computing Layered Model

The first aspect to consider as part of this layer is what I am going to call ”macroscopic containment” or MC for short. Most folks would simply refer to this as the building, but I want to make a distinction here as there are many functions we can get from the MC.

· The simplest form of MC is of course NONE. This is the case for equipment where the cabinetry is designed to sit out in the open. We see this in the telecom and perhaps the military industries, but not in this space. (although there are some interesting discussions ahead and a debate where “container” based solutions should go.)

· Next we find a very simple MC or what I am going to refer to as temporary devices. The best example of this is a tent. Not very practical in most cases (in fact it almost sounds like a joke), but I know there are people considering them for areas where all they need is a bit of protection from the elements and some light physical security.

· The next level is a fairly major transition to an actual building. This is probably where we are going to see most cloud installations and is what I think will ultimately prove to be most cost effective. I will refer to this as a utility building which is best described as a simple shell with a concrete floor (no raised floor). It provides controlled separation from the IT environment and outside environment. (I’ve seen these for about $38/sq ft. depending on the way you want the building finished-out.)

· The final MC type is more along the lines of conventional data centers with raised floors and the works. This provides a very clean and well controlled solution and is probably overkill for most cloud environments. A reasonable rule of thumbs for this type of MC is about $500 per sq ft.

We may want to add something describing this as owned, leased, or co-located space, but I have omitted this for now. I have also added MC to the schematic model we are going to build, but it isn’t much to look at. We’ll have to get a bit further in the definition for it to start having meaning.

As always, your comments are welcomed. Next up, Utilities!