Choosing the right level.
THE SPECTRUM
- Software: you use an application
- Platform: you deploy code
- Infrastructure: you run machines
WHAT INCREASES AS YOU MOVE DOWN
Control Flexibility Responsibility Skill required
WHAT DECREASES
Convenience Predictability of effort
HOW TO CHOOSE
Take the most managed option that does what you need.
WHY
Every layer you manage is a layer you must maintain and secure.
WHEN TO GO LOWER
The managed option genuinely cannot do it You have specific requirements it does not support You have the skills to operate the alternative
WHAT NOT TO DO
Choose infrastructure because it feels more capable Choose it because it appears cheaper per unit
THAT SECOND POINT
Raw resources look cheaper until you count the administration time.
WHAT MOST SMALL BUSINESSES NEED
Software services, and ordinary hosting for their website.
WHAT TO ASK
What would we actually do with the additional control?
