For a semi-annual capacity planning exercise expecting user growth, what is the appropriate first step?

The first step in a semi-annual capacity planning exercise anticipating user growth should focus on verifying the maximum node pool size and enabling horizontal pod autoscaler for load testing. This approach is key because it ensures that the infrastructure is capable of scaling to accommodate the projected increase in users.

By checking the node pool size, you can determine the upper limits of your current infrastructure. Enabling a horizontal pod autoscaler allows for the dynamic adjustment of the number of pods based on real-time load, ensuring that your application can handle increased traffic efficiently. Conducting load testing in this context helps simulate the expected user growth and validates whether the current architecture can support that growth without service degradation.

This initial step is critical to identifying potential bottlenecks and understanding resource needs before actual user growth occurs, allowing for any necessary adjustments in advance. It lays the groundwork for informed decision-making in scaling resources effectively to meet future demand.