The Make vs. Buy Decision for Data Center Infrastructure Management Software – A Clear Choice

Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM) software is critical in optimizing and managing complex data center operations. Several factors must be considered when organizations decide whether to make or buy DCIM software. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of purchasing Commercial of the Shelf (COTS) DCIM software and present compelling reasons why buying is often the better option.

1. Cost-effectiveness: One of the key advantages of buying COTS DCIM software is cost-effectiveness. Building an in-house solution requires significant investment in time, resources, and expertise. It involves hiring specialized developers, conducting extensive testing, and maintaining ongoing support. Conversely, buying DCIM software provides a ready-made solution with a predictable cost structure. Vendors offer different pricing models, such as subscription-based or one-time licensing fees, allowing organizations to choose an option that aligns with their budget and operational needs.
2. Expertise and Innovation: DCIM software vendors specialize in developing and enhancing their solutions. By purchasing commercially available software, organizations gain access to a team of experts who continually improve and innovate the product. While innovation often starts with valuable feedback and needs from their customer base, these vendors also invest in additional research and development, ensuring their software keeps pace with evolving industry standards and emerging technologies. Leveraging their expertise and direct ongoing customer experiences, organizations can take advantage of innovative features, integrations, and functionalities without bearing the burden of dreaming-up, developing and maintaining their own solution.
3. Time Efficiency: Time is of the essence when it comes to implementing a DCIM solution. Building in-house software can be a lengthy process involving requirements gathering, design, development, testing, and deployment. In contrast, buying DCIM software allows organizations to quickly deploy the solution and start reaping the benefits sooner. Vendors offer ready-to-use products that can be customized to fit specific requirements, significantly reducing the time required to implement a comprehensive DCIM solution.

While deciding between making or buying DCIM software often depends on an organization’s specific circumstances, purchasing a pre-built solution is often the better choice. In addition, buying DCIM software offers cost-effectiveness, access to expertise, innovation and time efficiency, and long-term support. These factors not only save resources but also enable organizations to focus on their core competencies, ultimately leading to improved data center management and operational efficiency.

Consider Modius® OpenData® DCIM

Modius has been delivering winning DCIM solutions since 2007. We make the make vs. buy decision easy with 12 purpose-built modules that provide the vast majority of what you need to run your data center out of the box. So, “get -up -and -running” faster and get our team of Data Center experts on your side to help guide you to success.

OpenData is a ready-to-deploy DCIM featuring an enterprise-class architecture that scales incredibly well. In addition, OpenData gives you real-time, normalized, actionable data accessible through a single sign-on and a single pane of glass.

We are passionate about helping clients run more profitable, better-integrated data centers. We are based in San Francisco. We are proudly a Veteran Owned Small Business (VOSB Certified). You can reach us at sales@modius.com or 1-888.323.0066.