The massive data processing and storage needs for AI has thrusted data center development into the spotlight.

“As generative AI technology becomes more seamlessly integrated into our everyday lives, the appetite for data will inevitably increase,” says Christopher Street, Managing Director of Data Centers, Asia Pacific, JLL.

Globally, the number of hyperscale sites in development is expected to double by 2024, up from 500 sites just five years ago, JLL data shows.

“We’ve seen a substantial increase in the size of campus builds, with constructions exceeding 100 megawatts becoming commonplace, compared to the past when a 20-megawatt requirement was considered large,” Street says.

These newbuilds are also getting greener as operators come under pressure to address the environmental impact of these facilities. This is driving a stronger emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency through improvements in technology and the adoption of renewable energy in these facilities, according to Street.

The advancements in AI are transforming the workplace by enabling an improved human experience and a greater degree of personalization in the office environment.

For instance, in Microsoft’s Redmond headquarters, AI collects and analyzes the data gathered from sensors on employees’ behavior patterns to anticipate needs, and automatically adjusts environmental factors like temperature, lighting, and desk height based on individual preferences.

A recent study between JLL and neuroscience firm EMOTIV goes a step further by analyzing cognitive data to transform workspace design.

“What AI is able to do is to connect the cognitive data we collect from users with the physical data on usage patterns and human behavior before making sense of it and recommending better insights on how we can run offices,” says Ovidi.

With AI’s capabilities, Ovidi believes employees’ expectations for workspace personalization and experience will only soar.

“I believe the workplace should align with people’s experience of technology in their daily lives as personal, useful, and easy. And I believe AI can help meet that expectation,” he says.