SQL is no excuse to avoid DevOps

Abstract

Using SQL databases is not an impediment to doing DevOps. Automating schema management and a little developer discipline enables more vigorous and repeatable testing, shorter release cycles, and reduced business risk. Automating releases liberates us. It turns a worrisome, stressful, manual upgrade process into a regular event that happens without incident. It reduces business risk but, more importantly, creates a more sustainable workplace. When you can confidently deploy new releases, you do it more frequently. New features that previously sat unreleased for weeks or months now reach users sooner. Bugs are fixed faster. Security holes are closed sooner. It enables the company to provide better value to customers.