Why Operability Should Be Your Priority in Software Development in 2024

Operability is a critical aspect of software development and operations that goes beyond the scope of DevOps. While DevOps focuses on the collaboration between development and operations teams, operability encompasses the entire lifecycle of a system, from design and deployment to monitoring and maintenance.

The importance of operability cannot be overstated in today's digital world, where businesses rely heavily on technology to deliver value to their customers. The success of a business often depends on the reliability and performance of its systems. By prioritizing operability in the design and development of a system, organizations can ensure that their systems are able to meet the needs of their customers and stakeholders in a reliable and efficient manner.

There are several key benefits to focusing on operability in software development and operations. Improved reliability is one of the most significant benefits. By designing systems with operability in mind, organizations can reduce downtime and improve the reliability of their systems. This is especially important for mission-critical systems that cannot afford to fail.

In addition to improved reliability, operability can also lead to enhanced performance. Operable systems are able to perform at their best, meeting the needs of users and customers in a timely and efficient manner. This is especially important for systems that handle large amounts of data or traffic.

Increased efficiency is another benefit of operability. Operable systems are easier to maintain and troubleshoot, leading to improved efficiency in the operation of the system. This can lead to cost savings and a better overall user experience.

Greater agility is also a key benefit of operability. By designing systems with operability in mind, organizations can be more agile in the face of change, quickly responding to changing business needs and customer demands.

But operability goes beyond just the design and development phase of a system. It also encompasses the ongoing maintenance and monitoring of a system. By regularly monitoring and maintaining operable systems, organizations can proactively identify and address issues before they become major problems, leading to even greater reliability and performance.

In addition to the benefits for the organization, operability can also lead to improved outcomes for customers and stakeholders. Reliable and efficient systems lead to a better user experience, which can lead to customer satisfaction and loyalty.

To ensure the operability of a system, it is important to consider operability throughout the entire lifecycle of the system. This includes the design and development phase, as well as ongoing maintenance and monitoring. It also involves collaboration across teams, including development, operations, and IT.