What is the first step in building an RI strategy?

• A. Learn the fundamentals
• B. Build a repeatable RI process
• C. Purchase regularly and often
• D. Measure and iterate

Answer: (A)

Learning the fundamentals of RI is essential because you must understand what Reserved Instances are, the different types and terms, how discounts are structured, and how commitments affect flexibility and coverage. This foundational knowledge lets you interpret usage data, forecast demand, and evaluate whether an RI makes sense in a given context. Only after grasping these basics can you design a repeatable process for identifying opportunities and aligning purchases with expected needs. Jumping straight to buying or to process design without this understanding risks misaligned commitments and missed savings, and measuring results without a solid baseline won't yield meaningful insights.