The Design and Organization of Data Centers/Documentation

Labeling Neatness begets neatness. Use a label maker. It means your labels look neat, uniform, and are easy to read. Label front and back of machine with name, IP address, & MAC Address. This means you are less likely to pull the wrong cable or shut down the wrong machine. Label multiple NICS on a single machine. Document VLANs on switches to allow installation without a network engineer. Organizing your documentation Keep documentation where it is needed. Make sure it is easy to update. Self adhesive vinyl pockets - great for walls and cabinets Folder pockets - great for three ring binders Consider a wiki or FAQ-o-matic, but have paper backups printed regularly. Understanding of a problem leads to quicker resolution. Documentation can be part of that. List of documentation to have Phone lists - near phones Company phone list Tech support phone list with contact numbers Loading dock height/ doorway dimensions Computer and network documents Network Diagram Start up/Shut down directions machine instructions Mechanical buttons/switches labeled by contractor Equipment maintenance schedules - air conditioning Start up/Shut down directions Permits posted securely