For anyone involved in software development, the “infinite loop” is synonymous with DevOps – and rightly so. We know that software rarely remains in a static state for very long. Continuous updates are necessary to meet user demands and deliver more value, faster than usual.

You must be wondering: of all the stages of the infinite cycle – plan, code, build, test, launch, implement, operate and monitor – why focus on launch and how the software delivery chain (SSC) comes into play? Also, what does it mean to adopt an initial launch approach to manage your software development and supply chain?

Explaining the infinite loop of DevOps

Each stage of the first goal of the infinite loop of DevOps (Plan > Code > Build > Test) is preparing for the release of a new software. All the stages that make up the second goal of the infinite loop (Deploy > Operate > Monitor) are executed in relation to the software version. The software launch stage is not the fulcrum of Development and Operations.

The software version contains the value of all its development efforts and is, in the last analysis, how its consumers interact. The way you implement your version is important to ensure that your users can access its value, as the quality of the version is what makes it easier to implement, execute and monitor IT operations.

An initial launch approach for SSC management

With so much depending on the software launch, it is essential to manage the launch day in its entirety. This is when the code starts and the dependencies extend to the execution time.

An initial launch approach to SSC management means being able to — at any moment — identify and connect the most direct points of software development (for example, coding and package curation) more directly (for example, production execution). With an initial launch approach, organizations can protect the quality and security of their software and keep priorities aligned between Development, Operations and Security teams.

Only when you manage to draw a line of connection between the execution time and the origin of the launch is that you can identify any element that may impact the launch in execution on the production. It is enough to use Log4j (whose consequences are still being confronted by developers and security professionals) to understand why this is so important. But if you remember Log4j is not enough to make you add to an initial launch approach, here are some other important advantages:

• Accelerated and consistent deliveries- Faster and more reliable release of products or updates.
• Robust auditing and alteration tracking: guaranteeing complete supervision and monitoring of modifications.
• Simplified release automation: Improving quality, uniformity and guarantee through automated release procedures.
• Confidence reinforced by reliable delivery methods: Establishing trust and certainty through consistently successful launches.
• Stress release processes: Transforming liberations into calm and anxiety-free operations.
• Clear visibility of the launch process: Identify gargalos and describe each potential launch.

Content originally posted in: JFrog Blog

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