Internal Developer Platform
An internal developer platform allows teams to optimize and automate development processes.
Classification
- ComplexityMedium
- Impact areaTechnical
- Decision typeDesign
- Organizational maturityIntermediate
Technical context
Principles & goals
Use cases & scenarios
Compromises
- Dependency on the Platform
- Complexity in Integration
- Limited User Acceptance
- Regular User Feedback Sessions
- Documentation of All Processes
- Integrating Security into the Development Workflow
I/O & resources
- Platform Documentation
- User Requests for the Platform
- Technical Infrastructure
- Improved Developer Experience
- More Efficient Deployment
- Increased Collaboration
Description
Internal developer platforms enhance the efficiency of software development teams by standardizing and simplifying tools and infrastructure. They promote self-service and automation, enabling developers to work faster and more effectively.
✔Benefits
- Increased Efficiency of Developers
- Faster Deployment Cycles
- Reduced Administrative Overhead
✖Limitations
- Limited Flexibility
- High Technical Debt
- Maintenance Effort May Increase
Trade-offs
Metrics
- Average Deployment Time
Measures the time taken to deploy an application from development to production.
- Deployment Error Rate
Tracks the errors that occur during deployment.
- User Satisfaction
Captures developer feedback about the platform.
Examples & implementations
In-house Platform at XYZ Corp
XYZ Corp implemented an internal platform to automate the deployment of microservices.
Efficient Test Automation at ABC GmbH
ABC GmbH uses the platform to conduct testing processes automatically.
Rapid Deployment at DEV Inc.
DEV Inc. can deploy new features within hours.
Implementation steps
Completion of Platform Documentation
Setting Up the Infrastructure
Training Developers
⚠️ Technical debt & bottlenecks
Technical debt
- Outdated Infrastructure Needing Upgrades
- Undocumented Code
- Lack of Tests for Existing Systems
Known bottlenecks
Misuse examples
- Ignoring Documentation
- Relying on Manual Processes
- Insufficient Testing
Typical traps
- Trying to Automate Too Much at Once
- Ignoring Technical Debt
- Poor Communication Between Teams
Required skills
Architectural drivers
Constraints
- • Technological Mandates
- • Organizational Guidelines
- • Budget Constraints