Forum: Azure VM to StaticWebApp
I replaced a costly VM-based Discourse forum with a zero-cost Azure Static Web App powered by Hugo and OpenAI Codex. I detail the rationale, savings, automated workflow, and features added—dark mode, client-side search, responsive design, and newsletter integration.
Cloud Certs & Development
Completed AZ-204 and AZ-400 Azure certifications. Shared 350-question prep sets on GitHub. Integrated Azure API Management into the WTF Model project to improve backend abstraction and security. APIM now manages Azure Functions with proper CORS and auth headers.
Foreign IP in Development
Began IP compliance work for Steam release by recreating ~80 assets using AI, documenting all third-party licenses in a summary and licences.json. Added in-app disclaimers and an IP request form with file upload and reCAPTCHA. All measures now integrated into the app.
Selling on Steam & Minimal Model Release
Pushed the WTF Minimal Model live at minimal.wtf-model.com with 50 descriptions and no overlays. Set up forum previews, Steam deployment via WPF/.NET 8, and CI/CD with Azure ACI. Public repo, intro video, and PDF planned for 2025. Full release delayed but progressing well.
Azure Exploration & Certifications
Completed Azure's AI-900, DP-900, and SC-900 certifications after years of hands-on use. GPT-4o helped deepen service knowledge like Purview, Intune, CosmosDB, etc. Refuse to pursue further certs due to 12-month recert rules. WTF model release coming in 2024.
Discourse Forum via Azure IaaS
Launched a Discourse-based forum at forum.wtf-model.com for WTF Model discussions. Used Bitnami image on Azure and a custom .NET8 app to auto-post entries via API. Handled image merging, metadata, and rate limits. OAuth 2.0 login enabled; all content now accessible.
IaaS to PaaS: Migrating to Shopify & Webapps
Migrated WTF project from Azure VM to Static Web Apps for cost and scalability. Replaced WooCommerce with Shopify and refactored backend logic into Azure Functions using C#. Integrated key generation, storage, and GitHub Actions deployment. Total cost now under €25/month.