A Reference Architecture for Governance of Cloud Native Applications

The evolution of cloud computing has given rise to Cloud Native Applications (CNAs), presenting new challenges in governance, particularly when faced with strict compliance requirements. This work explores the unique characteristics of CNAs and their impact on governance. We introduce a comprehensive reference architecture designed to streamline governance across CNAs, along with a sample implementation, offering insights for both single and multi-cloud environments. Our architecture seamlessly integrates governance within the CNA framework, adhering to a ``battery-included'' philosophy. Tailored for both expansive and compact CNA deployments across various industries, this design enables cloud practitioners to prioritize product development by alleviating the complexities associated with governance. In addition, it provides a building block for academic exploration of generic CNA frameworks, highlighting their relevance in the evolving cloud computing landscape.