Hitting the Goals for Usage Optimization

In the FinOps Optimize phase, usage optimization is the first opportunity. The reason for that is to pick the low-hanging fruits and generate quick savings with minimum effort. Usage optimization targets fall under two categories: cost avoidance and right sizing. Cost avoidance is achieved by deleting resources that are no longer needed. Using the right sizing strategy, cost savings come by carefully selecting the service SKUs that are just enough for the workload performance needs. We will look at the Iron Triangle method for usage optimization goal settings, and use the Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) method to identify the cost savings targets. Then, we will use the custom Azure Monitor workbooks to identify the waste and take action to realize the savings by removing or resizing the Azure resources. Azure Advisor also plays a critical role as it automatically monitors the resources and shows right-sizing opportunities. Cost optimization...