The Crucial Role of Test Fits for Data Centers

By Josh Jezek, PE, CFM, LEED AP,  Director, Commercial, and Jonathan Ragsdale, Director, Land

The demand for data centers is surging in today's digital landscape, driven by the exponential growth of data consumption and the need for robust cloud services. As businesses (and our everyday lives)increasingly rely on data centers to support their operations, the importance of strategic site selection and meticulous planning cannot be overstated. A well-executed data center development process hinges on understanding the unique constraints of each site, making test fits an essential component of this journey.

What is a Test Fit?

In the context of data centers, a test fit is a preliminary assessment that evaluates the viability of a site for development. It involves analyzing the physical characteristics of the land for constraints, as well as zoning regulations and permitting requirements. The primary purpose of conducting a test fit is to identify any barriers that may hinder the development process, such as environmental factors, land availability, and infrastructure needs. By optimizing the layout based on these assessments, developers can make informed decisions about site selection.

The Importance of Test Fits in Data Center Development

Land constraints and entitlements play a critical role in the site selection process. Many developers prioritize power and water availability, often overlooking the potential barriers posed by land characteristics. Test Fits with Master Planning serve as a vital tool in identifying these barriers, ensuring that developers are aware of zoning restrictions, earthwork needs, permitting challenges, and environmental considerations before committing to a site. Balancing power, water, and land availability is crucial for successful data center development, and test fits provide the necessary insights to achieve this balance, and in a timely manner.
 

The Test Fit Process
 

Initial Assessment

The test fit process begins with an initial assessment, where existing conditions and site data are gathered. This phase emphasizes collaboration among various teams, including civil engineers, noise control, environmental specialists, and planning experts. By pooling their expertise, these teams create a comprehensive understanding of the site and its potential constraints.

Site Analysis

Next, a thorough site analysis is conducted to evaluate topography, drainage, and other physical constraints. This step involves identifying potential issues such as wetlands, easements, and other encumbrances that could impact the development. Understanding these factors is essential for creating a viable plan that aligns with the developer’s goals and balances the regulatory requirements and environmental considerations.

Layout Optimization

Once the site analysis is complete, the focus shifts to layout optimization. This iterative process involves positioning buildings and infrastructure to maximize efficiency, adhere to site constraints, and align with the developer’s vision and goals. Feedback from engineering and planning teams is crucial during this stage, as it allows for continuous refinement of the layout based on real-world considerations and client objectives.

Benefits of a Comprehensive Test Fit

Conducting a thorough test fit offers a list of benefits, including cost-effectiveness and expedited development timelines. By identifying potential issues early in the process, developers may avoid costly mistakes and delays that could arise from poor site selection.

In summary, test fits are a critical component of the data center development process, providing valuable insights that inform site selection and planning. As the demand for data centers continues to grow, developers can prioritize comprehensive test fit services to ensure successful project outcomes. For those considering data center projects, engaging with professional test fit services from firms like Westwood can provide the expertise needed to navigate the complexities of site selection and development. Contact our team for assistance in your next data center project.

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About the Authors 

Josh Jezek, PE, CFM, LEED AP,  Director, Commercial

Josh has more than 20 years of civil engineering experience in design on both public and private sector projects. His primary responsibilities include project design and review, being a resource to project engineers, completing self-directed studies and design efforts, and assisting team leaders in completing projects. Josh’s areas of particular expertise are planning, platting, and zoning issues, including presentations before city commissions and councils, layout, and design of data centers, multi-family, municipal, healthcare, educational, commercial, industrial, and office site developments, and large floodplain studies, and floodplain reclamation.

Jonathan Ragsdale, Director, Land

Jonathan is the Director of Land Development Commercial. Jonathan’s specialty resides in large-scale land planning and feasibility. For the past 14 years, Jonathan has been involved with site planning, entitlement, and feasibility studies for various projects. Some of his past projects include leading the planning/entitlement for an 870-acre mixed-use project, management for infrastructure and site projects in the north Tarrant County area, which were designed and constructed in conjunction with two 1M+ SF industrial distribution buildings, a 300k+ SF distribution facility, and a facility which included a 40k SF maintenance building and 23 acres of paved parking.