Barbara Forbes

ba4bes

Barbara Forbes

Microsoft Azure MVP · GitHub Star

Azure architect · LinkedIn Learning instructor · Speaker

Azure, GitHub and DevOps. For everyone.

Talks

The Microsoft Cloud Adoption Framework: What the Docs don’t tell you

Azure Architecture
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The Microsoft Cloud Adoption Framework for Azure promises a flexible environment where developers have the freedom to innovate while keeping data and resources secure. Sounds great right? It is, but real life implementations can often come with some challenges. Including the first world problem of too much documentation.In this session, we'll look at the Cloud Adoption Framework and how you can use it effectively. I will take your through each step of the Framework and the challenges that came with them in the real world implementations. Spoiler alert: It’s often not the technology that’s the problem! By the end of this talk you will have actionable knowledge to shape your own Azure journey to its fullest potential

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Implementing Azure Policies: Before the Portal

azure governance
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As your Azure environment grows, you'll need to find ways to keep everything organized. Especially with structures like the Microsoft Cloud Adoption Framework, it's important to set boundaries to manage the endless possibilities that Azure has to offer. So you create policies to help maintain control, security, and compliance in your environment.But where do you begin? The options seem endless. Should you use all of them?In this talk, we'll look at the starting point. Guess what; it isn't the Azure portal. We'll see how to determine the policies you need and how to simplify your Azure experience rather than complicate it.We'll also address common challenges and mistakes in Azure policy as seen from the field. At the end, you will have a clearer understanding that will help you make the best choices and make Azure policy work for you.

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Coding smarter with GitHub Copilot

developer tooling ai
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AI is changing the way we work. But how do we actually create more value with it?You've seen what GitHub Copilot can do. But in this session, we will focus on what matters: how to get consistently better results, instead of feeling like you’re explaining your code to a toddler.Through live demos, we’ll explore how GitHub tools can be customized and managed to become your (slightly annoying) coworker. One that actually saves time, comes up with options you might miss, and occasionally surprises you in a good way.You’ll walk away with a clear overview and practical tips on which tools and models to use.Let's find out how we can make AI work for us to bring our ideas to life.

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This title was written by AI — and that’s only the beginning

ai usage productivity
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What happens when you let AI write your code, your posts, and your plans? In this talk I share what happened when I put AI to work across everything: shipping apps to production, managing my LinkedIn presence, automating my planning, learning new frameworks. Each experiment showed the same pattern: AI gives back exactly as much as you put into managing it. I will tell you what worked, what failed, and how you can improve your own results based on my lessons learned.You'll leave with real examples, an honest cost/benefit breakdown, and a clear sense of how to get more value out of your artificial friend, without losing the human logic behind it.

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Secure access to your Azure environment: Let's count the ways

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Azure's web-based access is incredibly convenient, allowing you to enter the portal from any device, anywhere. But this convenience isn't exclusive to you; it's also a potential gateway for those with malicious intent, trying to exploit your resources, data and budget. The consequences from a security breach can be huge.In an era where digital protection is needed more than ever, navigating the security tools can be overwhelming. Some tools might slow down your processes. Is the added security worth the potential decrease in speed? Is it necessary?This session is your guide through the security options available to cloud engineers. We'll explore MFA, PIM, JIT, VPN, PAW, and other three-letter abbreviations that stand between you and your Azure environment intruders. Discover modern tools that not only secure your Azure space but could also be used for on-premises access through Azure.By the end of our journey, you'll have a blueprint for creating the most secure environment. You'll leave equipped to make informed decisions about which security measures are right for your setup. Let's secure your Azure landscape together.

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Deploying to Azure: Azure DevOps Pipelines vs GitHub Actions

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When using Infrastructure as Code, it’s crucial to maintain the highest possible quality and security of your code. Automated tests and deployments help us achieve a consistent and stable Azure environment.But which tool should you use? Both Azure DevOps and GitHub Actions are professional tools to achieve this goal, but how do they compare? In this session, we will explore the similarities and differences between these two tools. How much time does it take to learn them, how much management do they require, and how do they integrate with Azure? Together, we’ll discover which of the two best fits your situation.

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