Sam Newman, an independent consultant and microservices pioneer, shares valuable insights on architecture evolution. He emphasizes starting with monoliths before transitioning to microservices, focusing on desired outcomes. The discussion highlights the importance of observability and testing in complex systems, advocating for independent deployments to reduce impact. Newman also addresses the power of ephemeral environments for continuous deployment, balancing organizational structure with effective architecture decisions. Tune in for a fresh perspective on navigating microservices complexities!
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Value of Real Case Studies
Sam Newman shares how he enriched his microservices book with real case studies and stories.
He stresses that real stories stick in people's heads better than theoretical examples.
insights INSIGHT
Microservices Reflect Organizations
Microservices align well with product-oriented, autonomous team structures.
Architecture often reflects organizational design, so microservices support business outcome focus.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Use Microservices With Purpose
Only adopt microservices if you have a clear, compelling business outcome.
Evaluate simpler solutions first before committing to microservices due to their complexity costs.
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Sam Newman, one of the pioneers of microservices, encourages architects to use distributed systems as a last resort architecture. He stresses the importance of focusing on the desired outcome and starting with monoliths, gradually evolving the architecture. By thinking holistically at the system level, including observability, ephemeral environments, and testing, it will enable your team to remain in a continuous state of flow.
Read a transcript of this interview: https://bit.ly/3FFKB5T
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