Title

AWS re:Invent 2023 - Modernize .NET apps at scale: DraftKings principles for success (XNT307)

Summary

• Chris Evelsizer, Principal Modernization Specialist for Microsoft Workloads on AWS, introduces the session alongside Manny, Product Manager for Microsoft Workloads at AWS, and Dave Musicant, Senior Director of Architecture at DraftKings.
• The session aims to inspire attendees to start or continue their modernization journey with the support of AWS tools and resources.
• DraftKings' modernization journey involved moving from.NET Framework to.NET Core, then to Linux, and finally to Kubernetes, with a focus on improving scalability, resilience, and developer efficiency while reducing operational costs.
• Dave emphasizes the importance of understanding the purpose of modernization, getting buy-in, and breaking down the process into manageable phases.
• DraftKings created an internal brand called Spark to change the conversation around modernization and utilized organizational structure to align leadership and teams.
• Data collection was crucial for understanding problems and measuring success.
• Training for engineers was designed to be struggle-based, workflow-specific, and scalable.
• The transition to Kubernetes required a mindset shift and training to manage the new environment.
• AWS tools and programs are available to assist with assessment, porting, containerization, microservices extraction, and refactoring.
• Manny from AWS discusses tools like Strategy Recommendations, Porting Assistant for.NET, AWS App2Container, Microservices Extractor for.NET, and AWS Toolkit for.NET Refactoring to aid in the modernization process.

Insights

• DraftKings' modernization journey highlights the significance of a clear purpose and strategic planning in large-scale technology transitions.
• The creation of an internal brand (Spark) and the use of organizational structure for buy-in suggest that successful modernization is as much about cultural change as it is about technology.
• The phased approach to modernization, starting with.NET Core, then Linux, and finally Kubernetes, allowed DraftKings to manage complexity and risk while realizing incremental benefits.
• Data-driven decision-making and feedback loops were critical for DraftKings to measure progress and adjust strategies.
• The training program's focus on struggle-based learning and workflow integration indicates that effective training should be practical and directly applicable to daily work.
• The use of AWS tools and resources underscores the value of leveraging cloud provider expertise and solutions to accelerate modernization efforts.
• AWS's suite of modernization tools demonstrates a comprehensive approach to addressing various aspects of the modernization process, from assessment to deployment.