I've often encountered a recurring theme when discussing DevOps with peers and clients. Many seem to equate DevOps with specific tools like Azure DevOps or JIRA. However, as I've learned over my 14 years as a Microsoft MVP specialising in Azure DevOps, this is a misconception that needs addressing. DevOps is not about the tools we use; it's about the ideas behind them.
The essence of DevOps lies in its conceptual foundation, born out of software engineering. It's about understanding the impact of accelerated processes on our engineering systems and the way we design and approach our products. It's about the idea that enables us to shorten those critical feedback loops, extending beyond mere dialogue about agility.
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Describing DevOps is challenging because it's not a tangible entity. It's akin to describing the flavour of the air on a crisp Scottish morning; it's felt, experienced, and understood through its effects rather than its appearance. DevOps is the nebulous part of not just the tools but the transformation they enable when aligned with the right mindset.
Tools may facilitate this journey, but they are not the journey itself. They are not the cause but the result of a shift in thinking towards a more integrated and responsive approach to software development. It's about leveraging these tools to support the idea of DevOps, not letting the tools define it.
In my experience, the most successful implementations of DevOps are those where the idea reigns supreme, and the tools are merely servants to that idea. It's about fostering an environment where the concept of DevOps can thrive, influencing every aspect of the product lifecycle.
NKDAgility can help!
These are the kinds of nuanced understandings that lean-agile practitioners relish, and many find perplexing. If you find it hard to grasp the true essence of DevOps, or struggle to implement its principles effectively, my team at NKDAgility is here to assist. We understand that the challenges of delivering value efficiently can be daunting, and it's crucial to seek guidance without delay.
You can take action immediately. Request a free consultation with my team or enrol in one of our upcoming professional Scrum classes. Because what you need isn't just agility; you need the clear, unadorned perspective that is Naked Agility.