As a DevOps lead, I often feel it's crucial to carry my work laptop with me to handle emergencies, especially since my team is small and not everyone is fully trained on all our systems. I'm considering two options to ensure I have access in case something goes wrong. One idea is to use my Android phone's work profile with necessary apps like Termux and a pocket-sized foldable keyboard. The other option is to invest in a pocketable device like a Psion 5 MX specifically for emergencies. Has anyone faced a similar situation? What do you recommend?
4 Answers
Have you thought about something like the GPD MicroPC 2? It's around 500 bucks and works well for what you’re looking for. You can just tether to your phone for internet access. Definitely a better option than older devices like the Psion that can be unreliable.
Honestly, just bring your laptop. If you're feeling the pressure to always be available, it might be a sign to rethink how your team operates. It’s essential to train your team so you’re not the only one with the knowledge. Plus, leaving your laptop at home could lighten your load.. literally and figuratively.
This might not be the healthiest approach for a DevOps lead. Carrying a device could make you feel like you’re always on call, which isn't good for your mental health. Focus instead on empowering your team. If they can’t handle issues without you, maybe it’s time to look at your team’s training or processes first. Things like documenting systems and improving monitoring can take a lot of weight off your shoulders.
Totally agree! I used to micromanage everything and ended up burned out. It's about raising up the team, not just managing the fire.
Instead of focusing on a device, consider creating some simple break-glass scripts and tools that let you help others troubleshoot over a call. If your organization is small, you should address any gaps in your on-call roster first. It sounds to me like you might be taking on too much responsibility, which isn't sustainable.
Yeah, I've had a similar experience. Reducing that feeling of being indispensable is key to avoiding burnout.