What is full stack observability? Three essentials to achieve it

Full-stack observability is a comprehensive approach to monitoring and understanding all layers of a software application, from the user interface to the infrastructure, distinguishing itself from traditional monitoring by providing end-to-end visibility across the entire IT stack. Unlike siloed monitoring tools, full-stack observability offers a unified experience that allows engineers to troubleshoot, debug, and optimize performance efficiently by integrating data from logs, infrastructure, applications, and user experiences into a single source of truth. This approach enables faster problem detection and resolution, proactive system improvements, and enhances decision-making by providing a holistic view of system performance. Companies often confuse monitoring with true observability, leading to fragmented insights and inefficiencies, as demonstrated by the example of an engineer struggling to diagnose issues due to scattered tools and data. Full-stack observability, as advocated by platforms like New Relic, aggregates all telemetry data into one cohesive system, offering real-time insights and intuitive visualizations that promote seamless troubleshooting and innovation.