Introduction

Purpose

This opinionated guide explains how to use Azure DevOps to manage software projects. If you're new to Azure DevOps or DevOps in general, start by reading the Ebook -- 'What is DevOps?'

And for in-depth training use:

Scope

In-scope

• Good practices for using Azure DevOps core and advanced features.

• Recommended conventions and naming standards.

• Good practice checklist.

Out-of-scope

• Creating and configuring a new Azure DevOps organisation.

• Adding external users to Azure DevOps projects and teams.

• Integrating third-party software.

• Foundational DevOps topics, such as branching strategies, continuous integration (CI) and continuous delivery (CD).

• This guide offers links to detailed resources on Microsoft Learn rather than provide step-by-step instructions.

References

1. Software development handbook

2. How to request and manage software subscriptions

3. Using Source Control

4. RESTful API Design and Build Standards

5. How to Organise Your Software Solution

6. General Coding Standards

Conventions

The key words MUST, MUST NOT, REQUIRED, SHALL, SHALL NOT, SHOULD, SHOULD NOT, RECOMMENDED, MAY, and OPTIONAL in this document are to be interpreted as described in RFC 2119.

The need for guidance

We use Azure DevOps to manage thousands of tasks, performed daily by hundreds of staff. Following good practice is essential to ensure consistent use across the organisation.

This standard is designed to help you plan, build and release software in a way that enables seamless coordination across teams and boundaries.