Working with the VOICE model

DevOps teams need to deliver value to the end customer. The VOICE model, as defined by the IT company Sogeti, addresses this. VOICE stands for Value, Objectives, Indicators, Confidence, and Experience. The idea behind this model is that any IT delivery should deliver value to someone – typically, the end customer of a business. Value sets the objectives for IT delivery and these objectives are measured using indicators. Indicators also measure whether the pursued value will be achieved.

Confidence is about the indicators and if they contain relevant information to confirm that IT delivery actually results in the targeted value. Lastly, experience tells us if the delivered system is fulfilling the business demands and which improvements will lead to more business value. With that, the cycle starts over again.

This model is shown in the following diagram:

Figure 1.6 – The VOICE model

Since VOICE also involves looping feedback back to the beginning of the cycle with the aim of improving products and adding more value to the business, the model can be used for DevOps projects.

In Chapter 3, Architecting for DevOps Quality, we will explore VOICE in more detail.