Many Azure architectures start by copying reference architectures, following defaults, or applying guidance like the Cloud Adoption Framework without much discussion. Decisions are often justified with “because the CAF said so”. These approaches are useful, but they are often treated as rules instead of guidance.

This is an interactive session and it is not about being right. We discuss a number of Azure design decisions and the audience is asked to choose what they think is the best option each time. After the majority vote, Geert explains what that choice assumes and what is often overlooked, based on experience from real projects. He then explains when the other option can make more sense. The focus is on trade offs and context. And yes, the answer still depends, but now everyone knows why.