Two Crucial Steps to an Open Source DevOps Strategy

While deploying open-source software (OSS) in DevOps can help companies save money and escape vendor lock-in, the tools are often not supported by an infrastructure that allows them to be transferred throughout the enterprise, resulting in interoperability problems and a haphazard workflow.

Fremont, CA: During periods of mass destruction, open-source technology thrives, and this pandemic has been no exception. Companies are driving their digital transformation and DevOps initiatives around the board, turning to open source technologies to help them streamline operations. While deploying open-source software (OSS) in DevOps can help companies save money and escape vendor lock-in, the tools are often not supported by an infrastructure that allows them to be transferred throughout the enterprise, resulting in interoperability problems and a haphazard workflow.

Companies must formulate their strategy before embarking on an open-source migration. Following these measures would assist businesses in developing a structured strategy and a seamless open-source stack, allowing them to focus on lower costs and reap the benefits of the open-source community.

Key steps to an open-source DevOps strategy:

Consolidation

Fewer vendors mean fewer issues. When considering potential partners, one should bear in mind that partnering with a few main partners (rather than several) will be more effective in the long run because it will ensure that implementations work together seamlessly while also preventing vendor finger-pointing if they don't. One can examine potential partners to see the bundles, program stacks, and infrastructure they fund, as well as the degree of flexibility one has in swapping out different components. Avoiding vendor lock-in is critical, as switching vendors would be an expensive endeavor if one eventually plans to go in a different direction.

Choose the Right Tools

Not all resources are created equal. There are several options available to help elevate one's open source strategy. However, it is better to remember how each will impact their overall program. One can test the open-source tools one has chosen at each stage of one's pipeline to ensure that they can work together within the larger toolchain and every layer of their software stack, including platforms, databases, and monitoring solutions. If one has any concerns about their compatibility, they can either work with a professional who knows how the program will actually act in different environments or use free apps that help developers determine whether their tools are compatible across the wider stack. This will assist companies in selecting the appropriate open source technology early on, saving both time and money.