Cybertron2600 discusses inheriting a sprawling Azure environment as a cloud architect and asks for advice on managing and understanding it.

Inheriting a Large Azure Environment: Navigating the Challenges

Author: Cybertron2600

Stepping into the role of cloud architect for an enterprise, the author describes inheriting a vast and disorganized Azure environment comprising around 50 subscriptions across various departments. Used to working in smaller, more structured Azure setups, the author is now faced with a blank slate in terms of team, processes, and governance.

Initial Assessment and Main Challenge

The author’s main challenge is to take ownership of this cloud footprint. Their previous experience in professional services was largely focused on small and medium-sized companies, which did not prepare them for the scale and complexity encountered here. With numerous cloud-native applications and a multitude of stakeholders, the author is seeking the best place to start understanding and organizing the current Azure setup.

Key Concerns Raised

  • Scope and Scale: The Azure environment consists of approximately 50 subscriptions managed by different departments.
  • Governance & Processes: There appears to be little to no existing structure, governance, or documented processes.
  • Ownership: The author is eager to establish clarity and take control but is unsure of the right steps given the environment’s current state.

Request for Advice

Cybertron2600 asks the community how others would proceed if placed in a similar position. Specifically, they are seeking strategies and best practices for:

  • Gaining visibility into all subscriptions and resources
  • Introducing governance and organizational structure
  • Establishing effective processes and teams for management
  • Addressing cloud sprawl and normalizing resource configurations

The author hopes to leverage the community’s collective experience to develop a plan of action for transitioning the company from an unkempt cloud layout to a well-governed, secure, and manageable environment.

Original Source: Reddit: Inherited a large Azure environment

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