A common framework for quality: TIA initiative focuses on setting a new standard for data centers
Washington, D.C. (January 21, 2026) - Connected Nation (CN) supports the Telecommunications Industry Association’s (TIA) recently announced initiative to develop an infrastructure-focused Data Center Quality Standard.
With the growth of artificial intelligence (AI), the demand for data centers continues to increase worldwide. However, without consistent standards for infrastructure, data center implementation and management can be challenging.
That’s why TIA launched the development of a new Data Center Quality Standard. This new initiative draws on over 20 years of field data and experience.
TIA is also inviting industry leaders to help shape the standard. Operators, OEMs, suppliers, and standards experts are all welcome to contact TIA to help build a standard that reflects the industry’s needs.
Many TIA members virtually attended an informational meeting held on December 11. This committee meeting focused on sharing details about the new guidelines and what they would accomplish.
Members discussed why the new standard is necessary in an AI-driven environment, noting that it can help establish a trusted, common framework for quality among operators, customers, regulators, and partners.
“There’s an unprecedented growth in the world of data centers, heavily driven by machine learning,” said Gino Tozzi, Google's Head of Global Quality and Commissioning.
Tozzi spoke to the meeting attendees about the importance of collaboration when creating shared guidelines.
“The idea here is to collaborate with our peers as well as partners and suppliers across the industry to drive this additional standard for the business,” he said.
The new standard can also help streamline supplier qualification processes and reduce costs. The standard will address reliability, performance, and lifecycle management — all key areas driving customer decision-making.
By having a shared language and set of practices, data centers can deliver consistent performance across the industry.
For more information on this new initiative, visit TIA’s site or CN’s site. You can also listen to CN’s discussion with Tozzi on our podcast.