Episodes

  • 24 - From IT Specialist to IT Manager. Making the leap from individual contributor to leadership.
    Nov 20 2024

    Unlock your potential as an IT leader! In this video, we explore crucial responsibilities of an IT manager and how to effectively prepare for this significant transition from technical roles to leadership positions in the tech industry.


    Question 1: What are the key differences between being an IT specialist and an IT manager?

    While both roles are crucial within the IT field, they have distinct focuses. An IT specialist is primarily concerned with technical tasks, such as software development, network administration, or cybersecurity. They are experts in their specific field and often work independently or as part of a technical team.

    On the other hand, an IT manager is responsible for overseeing and managing a team of IT professionals. They focus on strategic planning, budget management, team leadership, and ensuring the overall IT infrastructure supports the organization's goals.

    Question 2: What skills do IT specialists need to develop before stepping into a management role?

    • Leadership skills: The ability to motivate, inspire, and guide teams.
    • Communication skills: Effective communication with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
    • Problem-solving skills: The ability to identify and resolve complex issues.
    • Decision-making skills: The ability to make informed decisions under pressure.
    • Business acumen: Understanding of business operations and financial principles.

    Question 3: How can IT specialists prepare themselves for the responsibilities of management?

    • Seek mentorship: Learn from experienced IT managers and seek their guidance.
    • Volunteer for leadership roles: Take on leadership roles in projects or teams to gain experience.
    • Develop soft skills: Focus on communication, teamwork, and conflict resolution.
    • Take management courses: Consider taking courses or certifications in project management or leadership.
    • Gain experience in different areas of IT: A broader understanding of IT can help you manage diverse teams.

    Question 4: What challenges do IT specialists commonly face when transitioning into a management role?

    • Balancing technical work with management responsibilities: Finding the right balance between hands-on work and strategic planning.
    • Managing teams and individuals: Leading and motivating a team of diverse individuals.
    • Handling administrative tasks: Dealing with budgets, reporting, and other administrative duties.
    • Adapting to a new role: Adjusting to the increased responsibilities and expectations.

    Question 5: How can new IT managers build trust and credibility with their teams?

    • Be transparent and honest: Communicate openly and honestly with your team.
    • Be approachable: Create an open-door policy and encourage team members to share their ideas and concerns.
    • Lead by example: Demonstrate strong work ethic and dedication.
    • Empower your team: Delegate tasks, provide autonomy, and recognize achievements.
    • Be a good listener: Actively listen to your team's feedback and concerns.

    Question 6: What should IT managers focus on during their first 90 days in the role?

    • Understand the team and their roles: Learn about the team's strengths, weaknesses, and goals.
    • Assess the current IT infrastructure: Identify areas for improvement and potential risks.
    • Establish relationships with key stakeholders: Build strong relationships with other departments.
    • Set clear expectations and goals: Communicate clear expectations to your team.
    • Prioritize tasks: Focus on the most critical tasks and address urgent issues.

    Question 7: What resources or mentorship opportunities should IT specialists seek out as they aim to move into management?

    • Mentorship programs
    • Professional development courses:
    • Industry conferences and webinars
    • Online communities
    • Coaching and counseling services


    #LeadershipSkills #TechLeadership #ITProfessionals #PeopleManagement #CareerDevelopment #ManagementTips #ITCareer #TechIndustry #ITManagement #CareerTransition

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    15 mins
  • 23 - Building a Personal Brand in IT. Stand out in the crowded tech landscape.
    Nov 18 2024

    Discover how building a personal brand on platforms like LinkedIn and YouTube can transform your job search. We explore the benefits of establishing credibility and expanding your professional network to enhance career opportunities!

    Question 1: What exactly is a personal brand, and why is it important in the IT world?

    A personal brand is how you present yourself professionally. In the IT world, it's crucial because it sets you apart from other professionals, establishes your credibility, and can open doors to new opportunities. A strong personal brand can help you land your dream job, attract clients, or even start your own business.


    Question 2: What are the first steps for someone looking to start building their personal brand in IT?

    1. Define your brand: Identify your unique value proposition and target audience.
    2. Create a professional online presence: Start with a professional website or LinkedIn profile.
    3. Share your expertise: Write blog posts, create videos, or give talks on topics you're passionate about.
    4. Network with others: Build relationships with other IT professionals.

    Question 3: How can tech professionals effectively showcase their skills and expertise online?

    • Blogging: Write about technical topics you're knowledgeable about.
    • Social media: Use platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn to share insights and connect with others.
    • Open-source contributions: Contribute to open-source projects to demonstrate your skills.
    • Online courses: Create and sell online courses to share your knowledge.
    • Public speaking: Speak at conferences or meetups to build your reputation.

    Question 4: How can professionals in IT stay authentic while building their personal brand?

    • Be yourself: Don't try to be someone you're not.
    • Share your passions: Talk about the things you're genuinely interested in.
    • Be transparent: Be honest about your experiences and mistakes.
    • Respond to comments and questions: Engage with your audience.

    Question 5: What are the common mistakes people make when trying to build their personal brand?

    • Neglecting their online presence: Not updating their profiles or sharing content regularly.
    • Focusing too much on quantity over quality: Posting low-quality content.
    • Being too salesy: Promoting yourself too aggressively.
    • Ignoring negative feedback: Not taking constructive criticism seriously.

    Question 6: How can a strong personal brand lead to career growth and new opportunities?

    A strong personal brand can:

    • Attract recruiters: Your brand can make you more visible to potential employers.
    • Land better job offers: A strong brand can help you negotiate higher salaries and better benefits.
    • Build a loyal following: A dedicated following can lead to more opportunities, such as speaking engagements and consulting gigs.
    • Establish yourself as an expert: A strong brand can position you as a thought leader in your field.

    Question 7: What actionable steps should listeners take today to begin building their personal brand in IT?

    1. Audit your online presence: Review your social media profiles and website.
    2. Set goals: Define what you want to achieve with your personal brand.
    3. Create a content calendar: Plan your content in advance.
    4. Network with others: Connect with other professionals in your field.
    5. Measure your progress: Track your metrics and adjust your strategy as needed.



    #PersonalBranding #CareerSuccess #LinkedInTips #Networking #YouTubeGrowth #ProfessionalDevelopment #JobInterviews #BrandAwareness #CareerOpportunities #NetworkingSuccess




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    19 mins
  • Field Report - Makati: ManageEngine Expands Philippine Footprint and Enhances Cybersecurity Offerings
    Nov 16 2024
    Makati, Philippines – November 6, 2024 - ManageEngine, a leading provider of enterprise IT management solutions, recently hosted an exclusive media lunch to discuss the future of cybersecurity in the Philippines and emerging trends shaping the country's IT landscape. The event, held at Shang Palace restaurant in Makati Shangri-la, brought together industry experts, journalists, and technology enthusiasts to delve into critical topics. Discussion was led by Arum Kumar, the Regional Director of ManageEngine. KaKaComputer also had a podcast recording in the field afterwards which will be released. ManageEngine, a division of Zoho Corporation, is a leading provider of IT management and security solutions. The company offers a comprehensive suite of products designed to help businesses of all sizes manage their IT infrastructure, applications, and security. Core Product Areas: IT Service Management (ITSM): Efficiently manage IT incidents, problems, changes, and assets. Desktop Central: Centralized management of desktops, laptops, and mobile devices. IT Operations Management (ITOM): Monitor and manage servers, networks, and applications. Security Information and Event Management (SIEM): Detects and responds to security threats. User Access Management: Securely manage user access to IT resources. IT Asset Management: Track and manage IT assets. IT Business Management (ITBM): Align IT with business goals. Key Differentiators: Comprehensive Product Suite: A wide range of integrated solutions to address various IT needs. Cloud and On-Premise Flexibility: Deploy our products on-premises or in the cloud, based on your specific requirements. Strong Security Focus: Protect your IT infrastructure with advanced security features. Scalability: Easily scale our solutions to meet your growing business needs. Expert Support: Our dedicated support team is available to assist you 24/7. Expansion in the Philippines The company has had a presence in the Philippines for some time, with over 1,000 customers. They are now expanding their local presence by opening an office and recruiting local talent. They are looking to build a regional data center in the ASEAN, perhaps, Philippines in the near future as the demand grows. Customer Expectations Customers are increasingly demanding a unified IT management platform. They expect good cyber hygiene, employee and customer experience, scalability, and compliance with regulations. The company emphasizes domain expertise and local support to meet these expectations. Business Deployment & Competitive Differentiator Offer both on-premise and cloud-based solutions. Building their own software products Offering a contextual value proposition focused on business operations Prioritize data privacy and security, and do not sell customer data. Manage their own data centers and infrastructure. Target Market in The Philippines Targets a wide range of industries, including government, banking, finance, education, healthcare, and IT services. also focus on helping customers comply with industry-specific regulations. Cybersecurity Challenges Sees a lack of digital maturity in many organizations as a major cybersecurity challenge. Believe that AI can be used for both good and bad in cybersecurity. Recommend using AI-powered anomaly detection and multi-factor authentication to improve security. Training and Education Offers training programs to help businesses educate their employees about cybersecurity. See a need for closer collaboration between governments, universities, and companies to address the cybersecurity skills gap. University Partnerships The company is interested in partnering with universities to develop and offer cybersecurity courses. They want to help bridge the gap between education and industry needs. Commitment to Customers: At ManageEngine, they are committed to providing innovative solutions that help businesses succeed. They prioritize customer satisfaction and strive to exceed expectations.
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    21 mins
  • 22 - How to Build and Manage a Side Project. Creating a project that enhances your skills and career
    Nov 13 2024
    Discover how side projects can enhance your skills and build a portfolio in the tech industry. Ideal for students and fresh graduates, we emphasize the importance of practical experience alongside earning potential. Don’t miss these insights to level up your career! Sponsorder by Coffeelancers, a mobile coffee station for corporate events and life celebrations. The flagship product is nitro cold brew coffee. ⁠https://www.instagram.com/coffeelancers/⁠ Question 1: Why is working on side projects important for IT professionals? Skill enhancement: They allow you to experiment with new technologies and techniques.Portfolio building: You can showcase your skills and creativity through tangible projects.Networking opportunities: Collaborating with others on open-source projects can lead to valuable connections.Personal satisfaction: Pursuing personal projects can be fulfilling and rewarding.Potential career advancement: Successful side projects can lead to new job opportunities or promotions. Question 2: How can someone choose the right idea for their side project? Personal interest: Choose a project that excites you and aligns with your passions.Skill development: Select a project that helps you learn new skills or improve existing ones.Practical application: Consider projects that can be applied to real-world problems or have practical use cases.Time commitment: Be realistic about the time you can dedicate to the project. Question 3: What are some strategies to manage your time effectively while juggling a side project and a full-time job? Time management: Use time management techniques like time blocking or the Pomodoro Technique to allocate specific time slots for your side project.Prioritization: Determine the most important tasks and focus on them first.Effective planning: Create a detailed project plan to break down tasks into smaller, manageable steps.Avoid distractions: Minimize distractions by finding a quiet workspace and using productivity tools. Question 4: What challenges do developers face when starting or managing side projects, and how can they overcome them? Lack of motivation: Stay motivated by setting achievable goals and celebrating small victories.Time constraints: Manage your time effectively and prioritize tasks.Technical difficulties: Seek help from online communities or mentors.Burnout: Take regular breaks and avoid overworking. Question 5: How can developers ensure that their side project adds value to their resume or portfolio? Document your work: Create a detailed project report or write blog posts about your experiences.Showcase your skills: Highlight the technical skills and problem-solving abilities you used in the project.Open-source your project: Contribute to the open-source community and gain visibility.Use a portfolio website: Showcase your projects in a professional manner. Question 6: What tools and resources can help developers successfully complete side projects? Version control: Use Git to manage your code and collaborate with others.Project management tools: Utilize tools like Trello or Asana to organize tasks and track progress.Online communities: Join forums and communities to get help and advice. Question 7: What should developers focus on when transitioning their side project into something bigger, like a startup or open-source initiative? Business planning: Develop a solid business plan outlining your target market, revenue model, and growth strategy.Legal considerations: Understand the legal implications of starting a business or open-sourcing your project.Team building: Assemble a talented team to help you scale your project.Fundraising: Secure funding to support your project's growth and development.Marketing and promotion: Create a marketing strategy to attract users and investors. #SideProjects #TechIndustry #CareerGrowth #PortfolioBuilding #SkillDevelopment #StudentsInTech #FreshGraduates #TechCareers #LearningJourney #ProfessionalDevelopment
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    15 mins
  • 21 - Mastering the Art of Debugging and Testing. How to efficiently troubleshoot and solve coding issues.
    Nov 11 2024
    Master Debugging: Unlocking the Secrets to Coding Success. We delve into the world of debugging, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking in overcoming common coding mistakes like syntax errors and runtime failures. Join us as we share essential tips every developer should know for a smoother coding experience! Sponsorder by Coffeelancers, a mobile coffee station for corporate events and life celebrations. The flagship product is nitro cold brew coffee. https://www.instagram.com/coffeelancers/ Question 1: Why is debugging such an important skill for developers? Debugging is a fundamental skill for any developer. It's the process of identifying and fixing errors in software code. Without effective debugging, software would be riddled with bugs, leading to poor performance, security vulnerabilities, and user frustration. Question 2: What are some common debugging tools and techniques every developer should know? Printers and Loggers: These tools allow you to print or log variables and messages to the console or a log file.Debuggers: Tools like Visual Studio Code Debugger, Chrome DevTools, and GDB allow you to step through code line by line, inspect variables, and set breakpoints.Breakpoints: These mark specific points in your code where execution pauses, allowing you to examine the state of variables and the call stack.Unit Testing: Writing small, isolated tests for individual code units to identify and fix bugs early in the development process. Question 3: How can developers stay calm and systematic when dealing with difficult bugs? Break down the problem: Divide the problem into smaller, more manageable subproblems.Use a systematic approach: Follow a logical approach, such as the divide-and-conquer method.Take breaks: Stepping away from the problem can help you return with a fresh perspective.Seek help: Don't hesitate to ask for help from colleagues or online communities. Question 4: What are the best practices for testing your code to ensure it works properly? Write clear and concise code: Well-written code is easier to test and debug.Write unit tests: Test individual units of code in isolation.Perform integration testing: Test how different components of the system work together.Conduct system testing: Test the entire system to ensure it meets requirements.User acceptance testing (UAT): Involve end-users to test the system's functionality and usability. Question 5: What are some common mistakes developers make when debugging and testing? Jumping to conclusions: Avoid making assumptions about the cause of the bug.Overlooking simple errors: Sometimes, the simplest mistakes can cause the most complex problems.Not using debugging tools effectively: Learn how to use debugging tools to their full potential.Neglecting test automation: Automate repetitive tests to save time and improve efficiency. Question 6: What are some tools or methodologies you recommend for improving testing efficiency? Test-Driven Development (TDD): Write tests before writing code.Continuous Integration/Continuous Delivery (CI/CD): Automate the build, test, and deployment process.Static code analysis tools: Identify potential issues in your code without running it.Test automation frameworks: Use tools like Selenium, JUnit, or TestNG to automate test execution. Question 7: What’s your advice for developers looking to level up their debugging and testing skills? Practice regularly: The more you practice, the better you'll become.Learn from others: Seek guidance from experienced developers and learn from their mistakes.Stay curious: Continuously explore new tools and techniques.Embrace failure: Don't be afraid to make mistakes; they are opportunities to learn and grow.Build a strong foundation: Invest time in learning fundamental programming concepts and algorithms. #DebuggingTips #CodingSuccess #DeveloperInsights #SyntaxErrors #CriticalThinking #ProgrammingMistakes #TechEducation #LearnToCode #SoftwareDevelopment #CodingCommunity
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    18 mins
  • 20 - Tech Sisters: Women’s Voices, Women’s Stories : sharing experiences, challenges, and wins.
    Nov 6 2024

    Conversations with women in tech—sharing experiences, challenges, and wins. It's essential to show up for yourself and others. Consistency and discipline differentiate you in the industry. Remember, you define your own potential—never let anyone dictate your dreams! Join us to explore how to empower yourself and those around you.


    Question 1: What first inspired you to pursue a career in tech, and what stage are you currently at in your journey?

    I've always been fascinated by the power of technology to solve problems and connect people. The idea of creating something tangible and impactful, something that could potentially change the world, was incredibly inspiring. I started my journey in IT as a software developer and have since progressed into a leadership role, managing a team of talented engineers.

    Question 2: What are some of the key challenges you've faced as a woman in tech, and how did you overcome them?

    One of the biggest challenges I've faced is the gender gap in tech. Often, I've been the only woman in the room, which can be isolating and intimidating. To overcome this, I've focused on building strong relationships with my colleagues, seeking out mentors, and advocating for myself. I've also learned to be assertive and confident, even when it's uncomfortable.

    Question 3: How do you stay motivated and passionate about your work in the tech industry?

    Staying motivated in tech requires a continuous learning mindset. I'm always seeking out new challenges and opportunities to grow. I'm also passionate about mentoring younger women in tech and helping them succeed.

    Question 4: What advice would you give to women just entering the tech industry today?

    My advice is to be confident in your abilities, don't be afraid to ask questions, and seek out mentors who can guide you. Don't let stereotypes or biases hold you back. Surround yourself with supportive people who believe in you.

    Question 5: How has the tech industry changed for women during your time in it, and what improvements still need to be made?

    While there has been progress, there's still a long way to go. More women are entering the tech industry, and there's a growing awareness of gender bias and discrimination. However, we need to continue to address issues like the gender pay gap, lack of female representation in leadership roles, and unconscious bias.

    Question 6: What role does mentorship and community play in your success as a woman in tech?

    Mentorship and community have been instrumental in my success. Having mentors who have provided guidance and support has been invaluable. Additionally, being part of a supportive community of women in tech has helped me to overcome challenges and stay motivated.

    Question 7: What actions can our listeners take today to support women in tech and drive more inclusion in the industry?

    • Mentorship: Offer mentorship to young women in tech.
    • Sponsorship: Advocate for women in tech and promote their work.
    • Inclusive language: Use gender-neutral language and avoid stereotypes.
    • Challenge bias: Call out bias and discrimination when you see it.
    • Support women-led initiatives: Donate to or volunteer for organizations that support women in tech.


    #Empowerment #Confidence #CommunityBuilding #WomenInBusiness #SelfGrowth #Consistency #Discipline #DefineYourPath #Inspiration #GirlPower

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    16 mins
  • 19 - Tech Scholarships and Grants - In School and Young Professionals. Discover the financial support that can launch your tech career.
    Nov 4 2024

    Maximize your chances of winning scholarships with our key strategies! We discuss the importance of listing available scholarships, organizing your applications, and finding mentors. Research thoroughly and pursue every opportunity to secure that scholarship you've been dreaming of! #ScholarshipTips #EducationSuccess #StudentFinance #MentorshipMatters #ResearchSkills #ScholarshipPreparation #OpportunityKnocks #CollegeFunding #AcademicExcellence #FutureLeaders


    Question 1: Why are scholarships and grants so important for students and early-career professionals in tech?

    Scholarships and grants can significantly reduce financial burdens, allowing students and early-career professionals to focus on their studies and career development. They can also provide access to valuable resources, mentorship opportunities, and networking connections.

    Question 2: What types of tech scholarships and grants are available for students and young professionals?

    • Academic scholarships: Awarded based on academic merit and GPA.
    • Need-based scholarships: Granted to students with financial need.
    • Diversity scholarships: Targeted towards underrepresented groups in tech.
    • Research grants: Supporting research projects and innovation.
    • Professional development grants: Funding for certifications, conferences, or workshops.

    Question 3: How can listeners find tech scholarships and grants that are right for them?

    • Online databases: Websites like FastWeb, Scholarships.com, and Chegg offer extensive databases of scholarships and grants.
    • University financial aid offices: Consult with your university's financial aid office for guidance and information.
    • Professional organizations: Many professional organizations offer scholarships to their members.
    • Company-specific programs: Tech companies often provide scholarships and grants to support students and early-career professionals.

    Question 4: What are some common mistakes applicants make when applying for scholarships and grants?

    • Not reading instructions carefully: Failing to follow specific guidelines and requirements.
    • Submitting incomplete applications: Missing required documents or information.
    • Poor writing and grammar: Using poor writing and grammar can negatively impact your application.
    • Not tailoring applications: Failing to customize your application to each specific scholarship.
    • Not following up: Neglecting to follow up with the scholarship committee after submitting your application.

    Question 5: What tips do you have for writing a standout scholarship or grant application?

    • Tell your story: Share a personal story that highlights your passion for technology and your goals.
    • Quantify your achievements: Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and accomplishments.
    • Proofread carefully: Ensure your application is free of errors and typos.
    • Seek feedback: Ask a friend, mentor, or advisor to review your application.
    • Be persistent: Don't get discouraged if you don't receive a scholarship on your first try.

    Question 6: How can young professionals leverage grants to further their tech careers?

    • Fund certifications: Use grants to obtain certifications that can advance your career.
    • Attend conferences: Attend industry conferences to network and learn from experts.
    • Start a business: Use grants to fund your own startup or side project.
    • Pay for educational expenses: Cover tuition fees or other educational costs.

    Question 7: What actionable steps can listeners take today to start their search for tech scholarships and grants?

    1. Create a list of potential scholarships: Research scholarships and grants that align with your academic and career goals.
    2. Set a timeline: Create a schedule for completing applications and meeting deadlines.
    3. Gather necessary documents: Collect transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other required documents.
    4. Start drafting your essays: Begin writing your personal statements and essays well in advance.
    5. Seek guidance: Consult with a mentor, advisor, or career counselor for advice and support.
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    17 mins
  • 18 - Horror Stories in Tech: Lessons learned from the disasters that keep us up at night.
    Oct 30 2024

    Discover how to prevent industry horror stories with effective monitoring and automation techniques. Don’t miss out on vital insights that can save your projects!


    Sponsored by TutorialsDojo: Your One-Stop Learning Portal for AWS Certification & Other Cloud Topics ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tutorialsdojo.com/⁠⁠


    Question 1: Can you tell us about the most unforgettable tech disaster you've experienced?

    One of the most unforgettable tech disasters I experienced involved a major website outage during a high-traffic event. The website, a crucial platform for online sales, suddenly became inaccessible to millions of users. This resulted in significant financial losses and damaged the company's reputation.

    Question 2: What were the immediate steps taken to handle the situation once disaster struck?

    Once the outage was detected, our team immediately activated the incident response plan. We quickly mobilized a team of engineers to investigate the root cause of the issue. We also implemented a workaround solution to minimize the impact on users.

    Question 3: Looking back, what do you think could have been done differently to avoid this disaster?

    While we had regular system checks, we could have implemented more rigorous load testing to identify potential bottlenecks under heavy traffic. Additionally, a more robust disaster recovery plan could have mitigated the impact of the outage.

    Question 4: What long-term effects did the disaster have on your career, team, or project?

    The outage had a significant impact on the team's morale and trust. It also led to a reevaluation of our disaster recovery procedures and a renewed focus on system reliability.

    Question 5: What key steps can developers or IT professionals take to prevent similar disasters?

    • Regular system monitoring: Continuously monitor system performance and identify potential issues.
    • Robust testing: Conduct thorough testing, including load testing, stress testing, and security testing.
    • Disaster recovery planning: Develop a comprehensive disaster recovery plan and regularly test it.
    • Version control: Use version control systems to track changes and facilitate rollbacks.
    • Security best practices: Implement strong security measures to protect against cyberattacks.
    • Regular backups: Regularly back up critical data to prevent data loss.

    Question 6: Are there any specific tools or processes you recommend to minimize tech failures?

    • Monitoring tools: Use tools like Prometheus, Grafana, or Datadog to monitor system performance.
    • Logging and alerting: Implement robust logging and alerting systems to detect and respond to issues promptly.
    • Continuous integration and continuous delivery (CI/CD): Automate the build, test, and deployment process to reduce errors.
    • Infrastructure as Code (IaC): Use tools like Terraform or Ansible to automate infrastructure provisioning.

    Question 7: What’s your biggest takeaway from surviving a tech horror story?

    The biggest takeaway is the importance of being prepared. No matter how well-planned a system is, unexpected failures can occur. By having a solid disaster recovery plan, a strong team, and a proactive approach to problem-solving, it's possible to minimize the impact of such events.


    #TechHorrorStories #AWS #CloudComputing #Automation #Certifications #TechEducation #PreventiveStrategies #Observability #TechTips


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    14 mins