Governing Observability Platforms: A FinOps and Hybrid Architecture Strategy

AI outlines a strategic framework for governing modern observability platforms to address the "FinOps Paradox," where the cost of foundational data collection stifles innovation. The report proposes transforming the observability practice from a cost center into a value driver by implementing a hybrid data architecture that combines cost-effective OpenTelemetry with proprietary agents for crucial context. This technical shift is coupled with a three-step governance model for user onboarding, which systematically aligns the cost of monitoring with operational risk by temporarily enabling the most expensive, full-stack capabilities only during high-change events, described using a clinical risk management analogy. Finally, the strategy mandates a cultural shift for the observability team, transforming them from reactive "cost police" into proactive "platform governors" using a formal Shared Responsibility Model to foster partnership and accountability with development teams.