PROJECT INSIGHT
Both physical and data security are important,
Villa points out. The data centre looks like an
unremarkable shed, not warranting a second glance.
Even so, there is a 24-hour security system in force
which is combined with an automatic fire suppression
system. Data security is especially important.
With the unit on-site hosting both ticketing and
construction data, an off-site backup facility was an
essential addition.
Now deployed, the data centre is still well below
capacity allowing Villa to implement further
improvements throughout 2016. Currently high on his
list is improving the customer relationship and visitor
experience. Last year, WiFi was installed across the
site and a people counter installed inside the Basilica:
this will form the basis of this year’s improvement
program.
As you can imagine health and safety is a major
consideration and this is why continually monitoring
the number of visitors on-site is so important. It is
supported by the people counter which will now be
extended to the outside of the building to improve
visibility.
Virtual reality and augmented reality apps are
currently being utilised to aid the architectural
and construction processes as well as to guide
maintenance and conservation work.
Big Data is the current buzzword that is exciting the
IT world, but Villa admits that he is unsure how that
would fit into his scenario. “It is an interesting area
and I’m sure it could be put to good use, but it will
not be a priority until later this year.”
Looking back, Villa is happy with his choice and
added that the whole data centre will eventually be
installed below the church in its final configuration.
However, this may not be until the Sagrada Família
project is completed and currently this is forecast to
be 2026…
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