F E A T U R E
The role of real-time telemetry and analytics
Executives increasingly ask whether monitoring can be automated and whether analytics can predict failures. Real-time telemetry can turn intermittent lab checks into continuous insight. Streaming basic coolant parameters( pH, conductivity, temperature, turbidity and glycol concentration) to an operational dashboard enables early detection of trends and transient events that lab sampling can miss.
For CIOs, the combination of telemetry and analytics delivers three practical advantages: 1. Predictability – Forecast when an intervention is needed and schedule it during maintenance windows. 2. Efficiency – Target interventions precisely, reducing unnecessary flushes or preventive replacements. 3. Evidence – Create auditable records for regulators, customers and internal ESG reporting.
Telemetry is an enabler, not a substitute for engineering discipline. It should be implemented to augment a rigorous commissioning baseline and to feed decision processes rather than to excuse lax procedures.
Cooling-as-a-Service( CaaS): A pragmatic operational model
Many organisations will find value in engaging third-party expertise under a Cooling-as-a-Service( CaaS) model. CaaS shifts responsibility for fluid health, monitoring and life cycle care to a specialist provider, while the operator retains control over SLAs and integration. For executives evaluating this route, be explicit about what the service covers: commissioning support, continuous monitoring, on-call remediation, wastewater handling and compliance reporting are common line items.
CaaS can accelerate adoption, reduce hiring of niche skills and convert an unfamiliar risk into a contractually managed outcome. However, contract clarity is essential; ensure responsibilities and escalation paths are unambiguous and demand performance metrics that align with business goals.
Standards, collaboration and the path to scale
The D2C market is still maturing and lacks universal standards. Industry collaboration is therefore critical. Operators should look for partners who are active in workstreams and standards bodies working to codify commissioning and operational practices – for example, those contributing to Open Compute Project guidance and relevant ASHRAE discussions. Standards reduce vendor lock-in, de-risk procurement and help standardise acceptance criteria across sites.
What CIOs can ask for next
If you are evaluating D2C, start with a pilot but set commercial and technical
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