What does 'DevOps' refer to in software development?

'DevOps' refers to a set of practices that intertwine software development and IT operations. This approach is designed to enhance collaboration and productivity among teams by fostering a culture of continuous integration and delivery, shorter development cycles, and improved communication. By blending the traditionally siloed functions of development and operations, DevOps helps organizations to deliver software more efficiently and reliably.

This practice emphasizes various key aspects such as automation of processes, the use of agile methodologies, and a focus on monitoring and feedback to continuously improve both the software product and the deployment process. It supports improved performance metrics, faster time-to-market, and better alignment with business goals, which are crucial in today's fast-paced technology environment.

The choice aligned with this definition highlights the collaborative effort that defines DevOps, making it essential for modern software development strategies aiming for innovation and responsive design.