In today's evolving tech landscape, software development companies can use DevOps practices to streamline operations and boost competitiveness. Meanwhile, small businesses in any industry can benefit from these techniques as well. By connecting with a partner who leverages DevOps to optimize their projects, you can get your software needs met with better results and lower costs.

However, to take advantage of these opportunities, you need to know more about the subject. In this article, you'll learn about the world of DevOps methodologies. You’ll also discover why it is important for your tech partner to embrace this collaborative approach to software development and IT operations.

What are DevOps?

In its simplest explanation, DevOps represents a method for completing software and IT projects in an efficient way. The term itself combines the words "development" and "operations." The goal is to both streamline and optimize the process of development, getting high-impact offerings out as quickly as possible.

As a philosophy, DevOps encourages collaboration and integration of multiple parts of the project. Rather than having those segments operated separately, with little ongoing communication, a DevOps approach stresses cooperation.

Done right, this strategy lets you launch your completed products sooner. The end result is also more likely to be a stronger offering. The additional communication between stakeholders in the project leads to better outcomes.

Done right, [DevOps] lets you launch your completed products sooner. The end result is also more likely to be a stronger offering.

What are the benefits of DevOps?

Unlocking the power of DevOps could make a great difference to your small business. As we'll see, having an efficient, targeted process for creating new applications can deliver significant upsides. Here are some of the specific advantages a DevOps approach can offer:

Facilitate development of unique projects

As a small business, you likely won't have the resources for a large in-house software development team. Depending on your industry, you might not have any internal expertise in the matter at all. That limits your ability to create proprietary tools tailored to your customers and your operation.

Hiring a third-party DevOps provider can open up new horizons. You'll be empowered to develop software designed to your specifications. That will give you an edge against the competition and provide value throughout your operation.

Get the most out of collaboration

The underlying theme of a DevOps approach is collaboration. As we'll see, this trickles down to various other benefits. Using this strategy improves the relationship with your software partners. It energizes your team as well, making sure you maximize the value of their input.

Deliver better results

The added communication and collaboration inherent in DevOps help make the end result better than it would be otherwise. A study conducted by Atlassian and CITE Research underlines this fact. The survey revealed that just over six in 10 (61%) of industry insiders reported that a DevOps approach improved the quality of the final project.

Cut costs

DevOps methods benefit from feedback and use of automation. This leads to a more focused process that reduces the risk of wasteful dead ends. Meanwhile, it also streamlines the path to completion. As a result, the overall result will have a gentler impact on your budget.

Shorten timelines

Using DevOps doesn't just limit the cash required to make your vision a reality. It also reduces your time investment. You'll be able to get your projects implemented more quickly, letting you accelerate your growth plan.

Develop a predictable process

Working with a strong DevOps specialist ensures that you have a transparent process. Since the elements of the strategy involve a clear structure, you'll know going in what set of procedures your project will involve. This means you'll have significant visibility about the progress of your development.

Stay flexible

As your startup expands, you'll need to react to a changing market. The communication inherent in a DevOps approach means you can stay close to the pulse of your industry. This lets you stay nimble as you enact your long-term vision.

How to select the best DevOps partner

When you begin your research into DevOps, the names of tech behemoths come up. Giants like Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, BroadCom and Accenture have offerings in this area and provide information about the strategy. However, you might prefer a more targeted partner.

There are many DevOps partners that retain a larger scale and a wide-ranging reputation but are more focused (compared to sprawling conglomerates like Microsoft). Reaching out to these firms provides a great next step in your process, letting you learn your options and discuss your situation with experienced professionals. Here are some well-known names in the field:

• Appinventiv
• Algoworks
• Veritis
• Vention
• IT Svit
• Stackoverdrive.io
• CloudHesive
• XenonStack
• Aspired

Ultimately, you might not want a big name. You might be looking for a partner that provides niche services or specializes in your industry. Meanwhile, there are loads of other concerns that can play into your decision.

You should look for a provider that delivers the exact services you need. To discover that perfect fit, it's critical to know how to look. Here are some steps you can take to ensure you find the right DevOps partner:

• Identify your needs: Know what you can do on your own and where you hope a DevOps partner can assist you. Having a wish list ready at the outset lets you focus your search.

• Create a set of targeted goals: Going into your search, have at least one concrete project you are looking to complete. This way, the conversation can be as productive as possible and not limited to generalities.

• Learn the lingo: To have a constructive conversation with a DevOps collaborator, you'll need to familiarize yourself with their vocabulary.

• Discover as much as you can about your candidates: Dig deep into each company you are considering as a partner. The more information you have, the better choice you can make.

• Review past projects: Look at the previous work finished by your prospective partners. This will give you a good idea of the outcomes you can expect.

• Ease of communication: How straightforward is the back-and-forth discussion going to be with your DevOps options? Think about the process of collaboration and gravitate towards organizations that will be a true partner.

• Consider costs and timelines: As you talk with prospective partners, dig into the practical details. Set a budget and target date for any projects you envision.

• Talk to other clients: Get references for your potential DevOps choices. Speak to their previous customers and learn from their experiences.

• Discuss the cultural fit: Make sure your partner shares your vision and represents a good fit for your pace of operations. If you dovetail culturally, you'll work much better together.

• Think about maintenance and support: Talk to your potential DevOps partner about their ongoing services. Make sure that you receive the long-term support you need.

Finding the right DevOps partner for you

Your small businesses can greatly benefit from partnering up with a software development team that utilizes DevOps for team collaboration and improved quality. By adopting DevOps practices, these tech partners can help your small businesses achieve greater efficiency, faster time-to-market, and enhanced adaptability in an increasingly competitive business landscape.