Site Reliability Engineering (SRE) is a software engineering discipline that focuses on enhancing the reliability, availability, and performance of large-scale systems through automation and operational excellence. By applying software engineering principles to IT operations, SRE aims to reduce manual processes and improve system stability. Integrating SRE into cloud adoption can help organizations achieve better outcomes, as it emphasizes operational excellence and system reliability.

Adopting SRE practices can significantly enhance cloud transformation outcomes by enabling organizations to achieve 60 to 70 percent of their desired financial goals. This is accomplished through improved operational productivity, automation, and a focus on system reliability. SRE encourages organizations to rethink their processes and team structures, leading to faster delivery, increased resilience, and better overall efficiency in cloud applications.

Organizations often encounter several challenges when implementing SRE, such as assigning traditional operational support staff without the necessary skills, embedding SRE experts without clear responsibilities, and keeping SRE teams separate from application teams. Additionally, a focus on reactive manual activities rather than prioritizing automation can hinder the full potential of SRE. A holistic approach that integrates SRE teams and modernizes IT service management processes is essential for overcoming these challenges.