Background
Dell sought to enhance user experience and streamline the server cabinet and rack configuration process for their business customers. They approached Vertex with the task of creating an intuitive, browser-based tool accessible on Dell.com. The goal was to enable data center managers and network administrators to easily build and configure server cabinets and racks with minimal effort.
Problem
- Development of an easy-to-use, browser-based data center configuration tool.
- Requirement to calculate physical size, weight, power, and other factors automatically.
- Utilization of Adobe Flash for development, an uncommon choice for such a complex application.
Solution Provided
Vertex developed the Data Center Capacity Planner, a browser-based tool offering a graphical drag-and-drop interface for configuring server cabinets and racks. The tool automatically calculates various parameters, including physical size, weight, power, and battery backup requirements.
Users can configure devices such as servers, routers, switches, and uninterruptible power supplies and save their configurations for future use.
✅ What we did
- Browser-based interface with a graphical drag-and-drop functionality.
- Automatic calculation of physical size, weight, power, and other critical factors.
- Support for various devices including servers, routers, switches, and UPS.
- Ability to create, save, modify, and update network layouts conveniently.
✅ What we Deliver
The Data Center Capacity Planner provided Dell’s business customers with a user-friendly tool for configuring server cabinets and racks efficiently. By automating complex calculations and offering a visually intuitive interface, the tool streamlined the configuration process for data center managers and network administrators.
Additionally, the availability of a downloadable version allowed users to work on configurations offline, enhancing flexibility and accessibility.
Conclusion
Vertex successfully delivered a sophisticated yet user-friendly Data Center Capacity Planner, leveraging Adobe Flash to overcome development challenges. The tool exemplifies how complex problems can be solved effectively with simple tools when coupled with the right focus and leadership. Dell’s customers now have access to an intuitive and efficient solution for configuring data center infrastructure, enhancing their overall experience and productivity.
