Bringing Databases Into the DevOps Fold

DevOps is all about the fast iteration of application changes and then quickly deploying those applications to the user base. However, for DevOps to be a true success in the enterprise, teams must leverage automation as much as possible to remove time-consuming manual steps from the delivery pipeline.

For many, the database has become the stumbling block when it comes to achieving DevOps nirvana, simply because databases tend to be treated as separate entities in the development process and are often siloed in their own world of change management and provisioning.

For businesses striving to maximize the potential of DevOps, the traditional methodologies around database design, modification, management and provisioning must evolve into something that works hand in hand with DevOps teams. Otherwise, DevOps teams can expect delays or time lapses in delivery schedules if they are forced to wait for DBAs to make database changes.

In other words, database changes must become part of the DevOps process to achieve the agility required by today’s businesses. Failure to integrate database change processes as part of a DevOps practice will slow down projects, preventing the use of DevOps practices to achieve desired shorter iterations and faster releases.