Data Center Assessment Guides
How is the assessment organized?
The GRESB Data Center Assessment framework breaks down portfolio evaluation into increasingly detailed levels:
Component
The highest-level category in the assessment. Each component represents a broad area of sustainability evaluation (e.g., Management, New Development & Operations, New Development, Operations, Innovation).
Choosing the assessment component(s) to submit is at the participant’s discretion.
An entity's component selection determines which benchmark(s) and/or sector insight it participates in.
Aspect
Each section is made up of several aspects, which group together related themes. For example, within the Management component, there are aspects such as Leadership, Strategy, Transparency, Value Chain Engagement, Physical Risk & Resilience, and Certifications.
Indicator
The most detailed level of the hierarchy. Indicators are specific, measurable questions used to assess performance within an aspect (e.g., “TR1: Formal Sustainability Disclosure”).
How is indicator-level guidance organized?
Each indicator page in the GRESB Data Center Assessment is structured to provide both a high-level overview and detailed completion guidance:
At the top of each indicator page, summary cards provide a concise overview of the indicator’s key characteristics:
Base Score
Number of Points
Validation
Evidence required (or not)
Control dependent?
Yes/No
Below the summary cards, the detailed indicator guidance is provided:
Indicator Question
The exact question as presented in the assessment.
Indicator Visual
An image of the indicator, including all answer selections.
Intent
Explains the purpose of the indicator within the assessment.
Input
Provides instructions on how to complete the indicator and clarifies relevant terminology.
Validation
Outlines validation requirements for submitted evidence (where applicable).
Scoring
Breaks down how the indicator is scored, including how selections affect the final score.
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