Work started on setting up the DCA in 2009 following consultation between industry leaders the DTI, RDA and EU Commission. The aim was to create a trade association which was completely inclusive, independent and vendor natural and would represent the interests of the whole data centre community. This includes private data centre/server room owners, consumers of data centre 3rd party services and the suppliers providing products and services to the data centre sector.

The data centre sector represents the engine which underpins the worlds digital infrastructure and the trade association continues to provide a trusted voice which keeps the media, governments and public informed of the vital role the data centre sector plays as it keeps the wheels of business, commerce and the social media world turning.

On behalf of its members the DCA support the development of EU/Intl Standards and as recognised EU Commission Horizon 2020 consortium partners collaborate with its members and strategic partners on R&D projects designed to ensure the future health and sustainability of the sector. Special interest Groups (SiGs) have been setup to provide members with the ability to address key issues of concern to both the sector or their businesses though workshops, dissemination and or lobby activities.