The New Rules of Data Center Development | Not Your Father’s Data Center Podcast


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What does it take to develop data centers in today’s rapidly changing environment?

In this episode of Not Your Father’s Data Center, Compass Chief Revenue Officer Raymond Hawkins sits down with Sean Farney, VP of Data Center Strategy at JLL, to discuss the forces shaping the industry, from AI-driven demand and site selection to community engagement and transparency.

Together, they explore why today’s data center expansion is different, how community concerns are influencing development decisions, and what the industry needs to do to build greater trust.

Key Takeaways

  • AI Is Changing the Industry: Unlike the fiber boom of 2000, today’s data center expansion is responding to existing demand driven by AI and digital growth.
  • Community Engagement Matters: Community concerns are becoming a major factor in where and how data centers are developed.
  • Time to Revenue Is the New Priority: Site selection is increasingly influenced by how quickly projects can move forward, including power availability, regulations and community support.
  • Addressing Common Misconceptions: Raymond and Sean discuss concerns surrounding water consumption, electricity rates and local job creation.
  • Transparency Builds Trust: The industry must do a better job sharing data, communicating its impact and engaging with the communities where it operates.

About the Guest

Sean Farney | VP of Data Center Strategy, JLL

Sean Farney brings decades of experience in technology infrastructure and data center development. With a background spanning Microsoft, large-scale infrastructure projects and data center strategy, Sean offers a unique perspective on the industry’s evolution.

At JLL, he works with organizations navigating the growing demand for digital infrastructure, providing insights into market trends, development challenges and emerging opportunities.