A row of IO Anywhere data center modules at the IO Phoenix facility.
IO is forming a network of colocation providers that will use its IO.Anywhere modular data centers to expand their data center capacity. The company said its "Powered by IO" program will allow it to build a global network of partner sites using IO's modules and data center management software.
The first partner in the program is FORTRUST, a colocation and disaster recovery specialist in the Denver region. FORTRUST will use IO modular data center technology exclusively as the company expands its Denver data center. It will also integrate the IO.OS software for data center infrastructure management (DCIM) with its existing DCIM software to manage and monitor its existing data halls.
"Through Powered by IO, we are building a worldwide, interconnected network of data centers that collectively broadens the footprint of each partner and seamlessly helps our partners address their customers data center needs,' said Brent Wouters, Executive Vice President, Global Business Development, IO. "We enable partners to align strategically with their customers’ global technology road map, by providing a next-generation modular data center platform to run their businesses and enable cloud computing."
Expanding Modular Ecosystem
The new strategy by IO is designed to expand the ecosystem of providers and end users hosting their IT gear in IO's modular units. It positions IO as a supplier to service providers, who have been an important customer segment for modular data centers. Equally important, perhaps, is the role of the company's IO.OS software for data center infrastructure management (DCIM).
Powered by IO sites and service providers are certified by IO to host IO’s technology to provide Data Center as a Service (DCaaS) in exclusive markets. Partners will share resources, training, technology, leads, sales and marketing. IO partner certification covers operations, sales, design and includes real-time monitoring by the IO.OS. Partner companies commit to using IO modular data center technology in their data centers.
FORTRUST will be IO's exclusive Colorado partner and will position DCaaS as enabling the foundation for cloud computing in the Rocky Mountain region. FORTRUST will also be able to use IO New Jersey and IO Phoenix data centers to deliver FORTRUST DCaaS to customers.
"We conducted an extensive evaluation of how best to expand our data center and no other technology or business model came close to IO," said Rob McClary, Vice President, FORTRUST. "In addition to providing unmatched, production-grade technology, the Powered by IO program allows us to reduce our capital investments and only purchase what we require – with new capacity delivered fast. Our first two modules will be shipped to our site next week."
