Digital Commissioning in Data Centers: Reducing Handover Risk Through Real-Time Visibility

The scale and technical density of modern data centers have fundamentally changed the commissioning conversation. Power, cooling, automation and digital infrastructure no longer operate as isolated systems. They function as tightly integrated environments where a single interface gap can delay go-live or compromise uptime.

In hyperscale and Tier III or Tier IV facilities, even minor coordination failures can translate directly into delayed revenue activation and reputational risk.

Why traditional commissioning falls short

Traditional commissioning approaches often struggle to keep pace with this level of complexity. Manual reporting disconnected test packages and late-stage coordination create handover friction, rework and operational instability.

When commissioning is treated as a checklist activity at the end of construction, visibility into system dependencies is limited. Issues surface late, when resolution is more expensive and schedule impact is greater.

Digital commissioning as a strategic control layer

Digital commissioning introduces a more disciplined model built on structured data, real-time visibility and milestone-driven execution. By linking design inputs, system boundaries, equipment tagging and functional testing within a live digital framework, project teams gain transparency across system dependencies before issues escalate.

The advantage is faster testing, and stronger control over performance outcomes and schedule predictability.

David Tyrrell, Business Manager for Commissioning, Qualification & Validation at SGS, said: “Integrated digital commissioning is the fastest path from construction to reliable operations. When commissioning is treated as a strategic function and supported by live system visibility and structured handover data, uncertainty at the most critical transition point is dramatically reduced.”

Protecting revenue from day one

As operators demand predictable CAPEX delivery and immediate OPEX stability, commissioning must evolve. Real-time tracking of installation progress, pre-commissioning readiness and integrated systems testing allows stakeholders to anticipate constraints rather than react to them.

Digital documentation workflows and structured operations and maintenance preparation ensure that operating teams inherit assets that are fully traceable and performance-ready from day one.

For owners and developers navigating compressed schedules and escalating infrastructure complexity, commissioning can no longer be viewed as a final phase. It must serve as the digital backbone that aligns construction, quality assurance and operational readiness into one coordinated delivery strategy.

Why SGS?

We support data center owners and developers with integrated digital commissioning solutions designed to reduce handover risk and accelerate operational readiness. By combining independent verification expertise, structured methodologies, such as our System Start-up Matrix approach, and global project experience, we help transform complex builds into stable, performance-ready assets from day one.

Find out more.

As part of SGS DIGITAL TRUST, our global framework for building confidence in digital services and infrastructure, we help data centers address cybersecurity, data integrity and system reliability risks with independent assurance.