There are many factors that need to be taken into account with a ICT project. It is easy to look back after the event, but it is too late.

Power is a real cost factor and cannot be ignored. It may not directly impact the IT budget today, but it certainly can burn a big hole in the operational cost of running the business.

With any high volume (servers, switches, terminals, IP devices) deployment there has to be some checks and balances. ROI calculations if you like, but based on a ROI that is real and tangible.

I think we can state with confidence that power consumption has not been something being factored into a standard ROI calculation in the past, however it is noticable the change in approach vendors have today who almost lead with the energy consumption argument.

The power maths are simple, manufacturers end points all have differing power characteristics, defined in 3 power classes. These can vary from 1-2 Watts up to 10 Watts (and beyond in a number of cases).

The difference between 2 Watts and 10 Watts is significant on a per anum basis, 18 KWh Vs 90 KWh.

Did everyone need to have an IP phone? An ordinary POTs phone draws nothing when not used if they did were they low power (class 1 devices).

Was the POE equipment end or mid span and was it power efficient. Mid span configurations can cost more initially but cost of ownership is 30% less per annum.

Were the power units properly dimensioned and ventilation adequately provided (inefficient power means additional heat and the more heat the more air conditioning result ...more power and increased cost).

Our checklist

HowGreenisIT can conduct analysis and ROI modelling based on true cost of ownership, providing the business with accurate decision making criteria. Our advice to client's...

Take a step back from the vendors ROI and overall value proposition. Take time to look at the related issues.

Evaluate the user needs and identify the right endpoint.

Choose the right switching medium to meet the flexibility and business need, i.e. a hybrid IPBX may give you improved mixed media options and lower power consumption.

Evaluate the power characteristics of end points and factor those into the end user needs matrix.

Consider different user interfaces and technologies that may provide alternatives, i.e. softphones or mobile extensions.

Choose a Power over ethernet solution (POE) that is efficient and provides the flexibility you may need. Don't restrict yourselves to endspan devices (switches with built in power), look at midspan solutions to reduce power consumption.

Make sure your chosen solution does actually improve the business's carbon footprint.