James Belchamber from Opsfactory
What does Opsfactory do?
I am a DevOps Transformation Consultant and Operations Engineer, which is a fancy way of saying that I consult on helping software developers and the people who deploy their software work together more effectively, and then work with them to do exactly that. It's really interesting if you're at all interested in software development, and anyone in DeskLodge is welcome to come ask me about it (when I've not got my headphones on, of course!). OpsFactory is the brand that I and another consultant use to Blog, release Videos and generally evangelise about what we do.
When did you start?
I've been doing this work for nearly four years now, but we set up OpsFactory in 2017. I've been working in DeskLodge since (before) it was open!
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I've always been a problem solver and a troubleshooter (typical SysAdmin), and what I love about DevOps is that I can apply these skills to people, too. DevOps is all about breaking down silos, getting people to work together instead of pitting departments against each other, and delivering little and often. It's very satisfying to see organisations work more effectively, with more satisfied employees, because of something you've done.
What’s your favourite thing about Desklodge?
DeskLodge is like having an office full of people even though I'm just a solo worker. I can have a chat with people over coffee, pick someone's brains when I'm stuck, then shut myself off from the world (in Narnia) when I need to focus. It has all the mod cons you'd expect from a Google-style office space, without having to actually work for a big company. I'm a big fan.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time, I try to build the local tech community (The Basingstoke Tech Scene, which DeskLodge is kindly supporting). I'm also active politically (this year I'm running as a candidate for borough council!) and I have gotten into lifting some pretty heavy weights at Elite Bodyworks, an excellent local strongman gym. When I get some free time I cuddle my cat and play computer games.
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