Why consider database deployment automation?

Bob Walker discusses the challenges and solutions associated with database deployment automation, emphasizing the stress and risks involved compared to code deployment due to the lack of flexibility in rolling back changes. He reflects on his experiences as a lead developer where manual database deployments led to discrepancies, time-consuming processes, and frequent errors during major releases. The absence of a source of truth for database schema and manual tracking of changes created significant difficulties. In response, Walker describes how automating database deployments using tools and integrating database changes into source control dramatically improved efficiency, reduced deployment times from hours to minutes, and increased confidence in the deployment process. This automation allowed for more frequent releases, giving teams the ability to deliver features and bug fixes more promptly, while also freeing up DBA and operations teams from after-hours work. This article is the first in a series aimed at guiding readers through setting up database lifecycle management and deployment automation, providing real-world examples and highlighting common pitfalls.