Best Practices and Tips Discussion

After nearly 20 years in IT, I (mistakenly) thought DevOps was just another buzzword for a new way to IT.  With different definitions from every vendor, thinktank, and industry, it can get ... interesting. But what does it really mean? And how can you and others get started with it?

Here's the way I (personally and overly simply) define DevOps:

DevOps is the integration of developers and IT professionals - encouraging collaboration. Which aids in support of solutions, speeding time to resolution on issues, and accelerating all IT operations.

In many ways, I feel like the transition from traditional IT operations towards DevOps is similar to moving from traditional (waterfall) software development to Agile development.  Each caused IT professionals to learn some new vocabulary, get familiar with some new technology, and change the way they worked.

But DevOps isn't a "product" you install.  It's not a one-size-fits-all solution. It requires a cultural shift, a mindset change, and a willingness to learn new skills and tools. That's why I want to hear from you, the IT professionals who are interested in or are already working with DevOps.

  • What are your best practices and tips for getting started with DevOps?
  • How did you overcome the challenges and barriers that you faced?
  • What are the benefits and pitfalls of DevOps that you experienced?
  • What are the skills and tools that you recommend for DevOps beginners?

Please share your thoughts and insights in the replies below. I'm sure we can all learn something from each other and grow together as a DevOps community.