This is where I think out loud

Essays, podcasts, and keynotes on FinOps, cloud governance, and enterprise technology leadership.

Substance over frequency.

I’m a frequent speaker at conferences, executive briefings, and industry events on all things FinOps

Cost as a Non-functional Requirement in System Design
Stijn Depril Stijn Depril

Cost as a Non-functional Requirement in System Design

In my latest blog, I explore the vital integration of cost and sustainability in system design, drawing inspiration from the insights shared at AWS Re:Invent 2023 and rooted in FinOps principles. I discuss how considering cost as a crucial non-functional requirement, in tandem with sustainability, can transform system design to be more efficient, environmentally responsible, and financially sound. This approach is not just beneficial but essential in the current tech landscape, effectively bridging the gap between financial prudence and environmental stewardship.

Read More
FinOps in the Wild: Navigating Real-World Challenges and Solutions
Stijn Depril Stijn Depril

FinOps in the Wild: Navigating Real-World Challenges and Solutions

In my latest piece, "FinOps in the Wild: Navigating Real-World Challenges and Solutions in Cloud Financial Management," I delve into the essential elements of FinOps. The article highlights the critical importance of robust reporting, addresses the challenges of legacy systems in cloud computing, emphasizes the integration of the FinOps Framework, and discusses the value of learning from operational missteps. Join me as I uncover how organizations can effectively navigate and master the complexities of cloud financial management.

Read More
AWS Joins the FinOps Foundation: Like a Waterfall Merging into a Great Lake
Stijn Depril Stijn Depril

AWS Joins the FinOps Foundation: Like a Waterfall Merging into a Great Lake

Discover the partnership of Amazon Web Services (AWS) joining the FinOps Foundation. Explore how this collaboration, akin to a powerful waterfall merging into a vast lake, is set to revolutionize cloud cost management, offering enhanced clarity, tools, and strategies for organizations navigating the complexities of cloud spending.

Read More
Embracing the Past: My Journey with VMware
Stijn Depril Stijn Depril

Embracing the Past: My Journey with VMware

Reflecting on the profound impact of VMware on my career, I share my thoughts on Broadcom's acquisition of VMware, a move filled with uncertainty and concern. As VMware embarks on a new chapter under Broadcom's wing, I explore the potential implications of this acquisition on VMware's innovation, leadership, and market position, contemplating the future of a company that has been a significant part of my professional journey.

Read More
The Enigmatic FinOps Unicorn: Bridging Value and Innovation
Stijn Depril Stijn Depril

The Enigmatic FinOps Unicorn: Bridging Value and Innovation

In a modern business realm, a new breed of unicorn is emerging—the FinOps Unicorn. This unique entity embodies a blend of financial acumen, operational expertise, and exemplary communication skills, steering organizations towards a culture where financial accountability and operational excellence converge to drive business value. As the landscape of cloud technology evolves, the FinOps Unicorn navigates through cloud cost complexities, securing executive buy-in, and bridging functional silos, guiding firms towards sustainable innovation and growth.

Read More
The Ride of a Lifetime
Stijn Depril Stijn Depril

The Ride of a Lifetime

Every kid starts with training wheels, much like I began my journey in the world of FinOps. As the wheels came off and the terrains changed, so did my understanding of cloud operations. Join me as I recount my adventure from the thrill of biking to mastering the intricacies of FinOps

Read More
Stories from the Grill to FinOps
Stijn Depril Stijn Depril

Stories from the Grill to FinOps

Just as grilling the perfect steak requires precision, managing FinOps demands the right data for informed decisions. Dive into this delectable analogy to see how data-driven choices in both realms can lead to unparalleled success.

Read More
Let's Put Fun in FinOps
Stijn Depril Stijn Depril

Let's Put Fun in FinOps

FinOps, while essential, often feels like a chore to many engineers. But what if we sprinkled a touch of game dynamics into the mix? Learn how gamification can turn routine FinOps tasks into exciting challenges, enhancing engagement and turning every engineer into a proactive participant in the world of financial operations.

Read More
Unveiling the Business Relevance of FinOps: The Unit Economics Connection
Stijn Depril Stijn Depril

Unveiling the Business Relevance of FinOps: The Unit Economics Connection

Uncover the true power of FinOps as we unravel the myth that it's just another IT function. Embark on a journey through a captivating story of a subscription-based vendor and discover how unit economics forms the bridge between financial control and business growth, transforming FinOps into a strategic imperative for success.

Read More
FinOps: A GPS for Innovation, Not a Roadblock
Stijn Depril Stijn Depril

FinOps: A GPS for Innovation, Not a Roadblock

Does FinOps put a brake on innovation? In my ongoing FinOps myth-busting series, I debunk this misconception, showing you how FinOps acts as your GPS for innovation, guiding you towards an efficient, economical, and innovative cloud journey.

Read More
IBM's Chess Game: The Acquisition of Apptio
Stijn Depril Stijn Depril

IBM's Chess Game: The Acquisition of Apptio

IBM's acquisitions of Apptio and Turbonomic - it's like watching a gripping game of chess. With each move, IBM seems to be inching closer to the end game. But what's the strategy behind it all? In this personal commentary, I share my thoughts on these acquisitions and what they could mean for the future of IBM, FinOps, and AIops.

Read More
Cloudy with a Chance of Transparency: Carbon Emission Reporting in the EU and the Role of Cloud Computing
Stijn Depril Stijn Depril

Cloudy with a Chance of Transparency: Carbon Emission Reporting in the EU and the Role of Cloud Computing

This comprehensive guide dives deep into the EU's carbon emission reporting regulations and the significant role of cloud services in this arena. Highlighting the efforts of leading cloud service providers - AWS, Azure, and GCP - in providing reporting mechanisms and moving towards carbon neutrality, the blog paints a promising picture of a sustainable future in cloud computing.

Read More
FinOps X - Sponge Mode= ON!
Stijn Depril Stijn Depril

FinOps X - Sponge Mode= ON!

As I gear up for the exciting journey to FinOps X, I share my anticipation for the wealth of knowledge and insights that await. This is more than just attending sessions—it’s about harnessing the power of observation, decoding the ‘why’ behind the ‘what’, and utilizing these insights to drive innovation at Devoteam. Let’s fire up the engines!

Read More
Navigating Crossroads - The Confluence of FinOps and Sustainability
Stijn Depril Stijn Depril

Navigating Crossroads - The Confluence of FinOps and Sustainability

Diving deeper into FinOps, the fourth part of the 'Mythbusters' series navigates the crossroads of FinOps with other domains, like sustainability. Discover 'GreenOps' and its potential to drive sustainable action in cloud usage, making an impact beyond just the financial statement.

Read More
FinOps Myths Busted: It's Not Just About Cutting Costs
Stijn Depril Stijn Depril

FinOps Myths Busted: It's Not Just About Cutting Costs

Is FinOps all about cost-cutting? In my latest blog post of the Mythbusters series, I debunk this myth, exploring the 18 capabilities of FinOps. Discover the true essence of FinOps as a strategy for effective spending that maximizes business value, not just a cost reduction tool.

Read More
Myth-Busting Series: Debunking the Myth That FinOps is a One-Time Exercise
Stijn Depril Stijn Depril

Myth-Busting Series: Debunking the Myth That FinOps is a One-Time Exercise

Unravel the truth about Financial Operations (FinOps) in our latest blog post. Just as seasons change, so does your cloud environment, necessitating an adaptable and proactive approach to FinOps. Discover the power of regular reporting and effective action planning in busting the myth that FinOps is a one-time task. Dive deep into the dynamic world of FinOps with us.

Read More
Unraveling the Rosetta Stone of Cloud Cost Management: The FOCUS Initiative
Stijn Depril Stijn Depril

Unraveling the Rosetta Stone of Cloud Cost Management: The FOCUS Initiative

Discover how the FOCUS initiative is revolutionizing the world of cloud cost management. This revolutionary project, much like the Rosetta Stone, aims to translate the complex language of cloud costs into a common, easily understood language across all vendors. Embark on this exciting journey with us and unlock the secrets of cloud cost management.

Read More
A Winning Team: The CIO/CTO and FinOps Architects
Stijn Depril Stijn Depril

A Winning Team: The CIO/CTO and FinOps Architects

Discover the winning game plan for modern businesses, inspired by Ted Lasso's football tactics. Learn how a partnership between the CIO/CTO and a FinOps architect, much like a coach and a star player, can lead your business to victory in the digital and financial transformation arena.

Read More