google-cloud-waf-cost-optimization
Google Cloud Well-Architected Framework skill for the Cost Optimization pillar
Overview
The Cost Optimization pillar of the Google Cloud Well-Architected Framework provides a structured approach to optimize the costs of your cloud workloads while maximizing business value. Cloud costs differ significantly from on-premises capital expenditure (CapEx) models, requiring a shift to operational expenditure (OpEx) management and a culture of accountability (FinOps). The FinOps lifecycle consists of three iterative phases:
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Inform: Visibility and allocation. Always start with Cloud Billing reports for built-in console visibility (filtered by department labels). Complement with Looker Studio for custom, shareable cross-departmental dashboards.
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Optimize: Rates and usage. Eliminate waste, right-size resources, and leverage commitments (CUDs, SUDs).
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Operate: Continuous improvement. Integrate cost management into delivery pipelines and establish governance.