Firstly, let’s establish why software development companies opt for Kubernetes implementation, before establishing its relationship to DevOps.
Kubernetes is an open-source container-based platform which has the ability to automate the management, scalability and deployment of container-based applications. Kubernetes is a very powerful tool when it comes to DevOps, because Kubernetes implementation has the power to facilitate continuous delivery and automation of applications, which are both activities which are at the forefront of the DevOps approach.
Kubernetes is able to make the process of deployment more efficient, enabling DevOps teams to deliver greater scalability, flexibility, and reliability within the software development cycle. DevOps and Kubernetes are therefore inextricably linked, to the point that if you are looking for professional help in the form of specialised consultancy, it can be difficult for organisations to decide whether to opt for Kubernetes consultancy, or DevOps consultancy, or indeed both!?
Kubernetes consultants and DevOps consultants certainly do overlap to some degree in their roles. Where Kubernetes Consultants are more specialised in deploying, managing, and scaling containerised applications and implementing CI / CD pipelines for Kubernetes. An experienced Kubernetes Consultant will be highly experienced at aiding teams switch to the Kubernetes platform, ensuring that everyone knows how to get the best results from the migration.
DevOps Consultants, on the other hand, have a wider focus which takes into account more processes and activities across the whole software development pipeline. They are more focussed on encouraging greater levels of collaboration between those working on development, and those within operations. Wherever possible, DevOps Consultants, will look to introduce automation, with an aim to reduce the amount of menial tasks that are currently being conducted by team members, who’s time could be much better spent on driving innovation and creative problem-solving.
DevOps Consultants are skilled with the implementation of CI / CD pipelines and cloud-based infrastructure, in much the same way that Kubernetes Consultants are. So, if you wish to focus on upgrading continuous integration and delivery, but also have a desire to assess processes in a holistic fashion, then a DevOps Consultant might be the most suitable specialist to enlist the help of.
However, you would be better served by choosing a Kubernetes consultant over a DevOps consultant if, for example, your organisation already has Kubernetes in place but you wish to get better performance from it. You may also need help from a Kubernetes consultant if you require a custom Kubernetes solution, as they have what it takes to make sure that the application is appropriately configured specifically for you, and that you are protected against vulnerabilities specific to your setup.
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