Achieving Sustainability in Sri Lankan SME IT Firms through DevOps

Abstract

In the rapidly changing and highly competitive global IT industry, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Sri Lanka are tasked with the dual challenge of adapting quickly while maintaining sustainable business practices. DevOps, a methodology that integrates software development with IT operations, has emerged as a transformative strategy, offering improvements in operational efficiency, minimized environmental impact, and the cultivation of a collaborative and adaptive workplace culture. This study two-pronged approach - by performing a literature review and applying Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to analyze survey data from over 100 IT professionals working in Sri Lankan SMEs. The research explores the impact of DevOps practices on three key dimensions of sustainability: economic, environmental, and social. Findings reveal that DevOps not only improves resource efficiency, resulting in cost savings and reduced waste, but also boosts employee satisfaction and retention by fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement. This study explores the intersection of DevOps and sustainability, aiming to provide practical strategies for Sri Lankan IT SMEs to optimize resources, reduce waste, and promote sustainable growth while maintaining competitiveness in the global market.