Abstract - However well designed a data center appears on paper, ultimately its success stands or falls on day-to-day operations over the lifespan of the facility. Successful operations over the long term begins with having an Operations advocate at every stage of the planning and development process who deeply understands the integrated mesh of systems, technology, and human activity in a data center. By starting with the end in mind and giving Operations a strong voice from the outset, organizations will reap the benefits of maximum uptime, efficiency, and cost effectiveness year after year.