DevOps explained
DevOps improves software development pipelines by automating manual processes. This makes it easier to get code from development into production more quickly while maintaining code quality. Tools and technologies like version control for source code management are part of DevOps, but the single most important component is cultural.
DevOps requires close collaboration between development and operations teams, and encourages a willingness to experiment and learn from mistakes. Teams that practice DevOps can deliver software more rapidly and with fewer errors. DevOps methodologies are growing in popularity, particularly in industries where moving quickly is essential to remaining competitive.
How does DevOps work?
DevOps streamlines development by making key areas of the pipeline more efficient. Feedback loops are implemented to monitor application performance and identify areas for improvement. Technologies like error tracking software and build deployment tools automate simple and repetitive development tasks, enabling developers to focus on more important and fulfilling work, like coding new features.
To achieve best results with DevOps, teams must collaborate closely and work in lockstep towards the same goal. This enables organizations to deliver better software, faster.
What problems does DevOps solve?
Implementing DevOps can help teams and resources align for better collaboration and solve many software development issues, which results in better experiences for the end user.
At the core, DevOps practices enable teams to make changes quickly through rapid iteration and testing while reducing or eliminating inefficiencies in existing development workflows. That's why moving to a CI/CD workflow helps teams roll out new features more often and respond to customer feedback more quickly.
When your team and resources are aligned, collaboration becomes a much more efficient process, leading to more stable, frequent, and higher-caliber releases. Delivering a steady stream of solid releases and providing consistent customer value can help your business naturally grow.
Challenges and benefits of DevOps
DevOps often requires a complete shift in how teams carry out their day-to-day operations. Previously siloed teams are now expected to collaborate using a new set of tools, automations, and practices. Development and operations teams must work together to address these challenges and create a seamless new workflow.
When these roadblocks are overcome, DevOps practices provide numerous benefits. Teams can achieve their goals faster when they work with greater agility. Morale also gets a boost when teams work closely together on releases that happen at higher levels of quality and stability.