Devops Engineering

Traditional project-based software development is associated with certain cumbersome mechanisms that can be fixed with the DevOps approach. For instance, it often includes a software life cycle that makes the deployment of new functions for complex software systems time-consuming and arduous. There is also the risk that functions will already be outdated when they are released, as development and testing are often lengthy processes.

Moreover, it is often the case that not all software bugs are identified during  testing, which leads to quality assurance issues. In addition, creating a continuous flow of new features and bug fixes is difficult to achieve, because traditional development methods are organized in discrete phases, with each step needing to be completed before the next.

The DevOps approach, on the other hand, offers developers more freedom, but also requires more responsibility. It emphasizes the integration and collaboration between development and operations, which can solve several of the problems mentioned. Through the use of automation, continuous integration and deployment, a steady stream of new features and bug fixes can be ensured, while maintaining the quality of the software and minimizing the deployment risk.

As a method, DevOps optimizes the product life cycle and improves the quality of the software through two core principles: Shift right and shift left.

• Shift Right adapts the software life cycle to the development process and minimizes the risk of software bugs. The simplification of all development phases and continuous feedback during the operational stage are the key components of this principle
• Shift Left is based on development in a close-to-operational environment from the very start, so as to write stable code. Quicker feedback loops allow for the development to recognize and rectify errors at an early stage.

Product life cycle management is another important aspect of DevOps, especially for cyber-physical systems. This is because these systems require comprehensive preliminary tests using realistic simulations to be able to identify and rectify potential problems before they happen. Continuous investment in the development and improvement of tools, test methods and simulation options is crucial.

DevOps is a central building block in the increasingly digitalized world, which is based more and more on high-performance computing units for algorithms and cyber-physical systems. This approach is of particular relevance to companies that develop high-tech products, but also to market-leading digital corporations. In this context, traditional corporate structures are frequently being reconsidered and software engineers are being given an increasing amount of responsibility. However, it is important to note that even supposedly simple adjustments to the software often require the expertise of several specialists to ensure a holistic overview is obtained.

DevOps makes use of an extensive assortment of tools to automate everyday tasks and thereby increase efficiency. The goal is to achieve what is known as a “green to green” mentality, which ensures that the software consistently remains in a production-ready state.