What is CABs vs lightweight approvals and why does it matter in DevOps?

In the DevOps landscape, approval processes play a critical role in managing deployment and change management. Two common approaches to approvals are CABs (Change Advisory Boards) and lightweight approvals. Understanding the differences between these methods is crucial for enhancing the efficiency of development and operational processes.

CABs (Change Advisory Boards)

CABs are formal groups that review and approve changes before they are deployed to production. They typically consist of representatives from various stakeholder groups, including development, operations, security, and network teams. CAB meetings are often scheduled once a week or bi-weekly, and their primary focus is to assess the risk and impact of proposed changes.

Lightweight Approvals

In contrast, lightweight approvals are a more agile and rapid approach to change management. They often rely on automated checks and balances, enabling teams to gain quick approvals through tools and scripts. This method reduces the time spent on manual reviews and encourages faster delivery cycles, which aligns better with the principles of DevOps.

Why It Matters in DevOps

The choice between CABs and lightweight approvals can significantly impact the speed and efficiency of deployments in a DevOps environment. While CABs may provide thorough oversight, they can also create bottlenecks that slow down the process. Lightweight approvals allow teams to move faster, which is essential in today's fast-paced software development landscape. Striking the right balance between governance and speed is crucial for successful DevOps implementations.