Practical guide to DORA metrics

The DORA metrics, popularized by the book "Accelerate" and developed by the DevOps Research and Assessment team, offer a framework for evaluating software delivery performance by measuring four key areas: deployment frequency, change lead time, change failure rate, and time to restore service. These metrics are designed to provide insights into an organization's ability to deliver software efficiently while maintaining stability, making them useful for both engineering teams and investors. However, successful implementation of DORA metrics requires consideration of their context within organizational culture and operational practices, as well as an understanding of potential pitfalls such as over-reliance on aggregate data and lack of organizational buy-in. To effectively measure and improve using these metrics, teams can either set up a DIY solution using open-source tools or utilize platforms like Swarmia, which support broader engineering productivity initiatives.