Edge Computing. Strategies For Successful Implementation.

Edge computing is one of the latest technology developments impacting businesses. Businesses are working hard to implement edge computing solutions, but implementation for any new advancement can be filled with risk and inefficiency. Outlined below are some strategies for businesses to increase the likelihood of having a successful edge computing rollout.

Before we talk strategy, let us take a minute to define what is edge computing. Think of edge computing as a design concept, whereby an organization will design how hardware, software, and data can be deployed as close to the point of need – “the edge” – as possible. Deploying close to the edge improves performance and reliability of hardware, software, and data. Edging computing is not the same as cloud computing. Cloud computing focuses on ownership aspects of the hardware, software, and services. 

Strategy #1: Categorize and Prioritize Business Cases

Always start with a clear list of potential business cases. These businesses cases should be fairly detailed in terms of business function that is being impacted, stakeholder involvement with the business process, and aggregate volume of engagements with the business case.

Once a well-balanced list of business cases is developed, leaders in the company can prioritize based on business function, stakeholder involvement, or volume of engagements to drive change based on company goals.

 Strategy #2: Establish Key Benchmarks

The next key strategy is to establish the key benchmarks for measuring success. The same list compiled in strategy #1 should be evaluated based on the key benchmarks. Benchmarks will vary by organization, but typically will focus on bandwidth, latency, and performance. Involve the IT team to figure out how to shape benchmarks that will be most beneficial for your organization.

Strategy #3: Identify Appropriate Hardware, Software, and Data

The final strategy to a successful edge computing implementation is to start looking at the hardware, software, and data that can make the implementation happen. Shifting to data centers closer to your facilities, adding more UPS runtime, and investing in digital services are three of the many options available to implement edge computing. 

The move to edge computing will continue to accelerate as new technology advances. All businesses, regardless of product or service type, will need to invest in edge computing to create a better enterprise experience. Focusing on categorizing and prioritizing business cases, establishing key benchmarks, and identifying the appropriate hardware, software, and data are strategies that will increase the likelihood of having a successful edge computing implementation.