How I Built a Private Cloud on ManageIQ: Experience and Architecture

Introduction

At the end of 2021, I was offered a project to build a private cloud. The key question was simple: “Do you know Ruby on Rails?” — I did. I didn’t think long before saying yes.

Phase One: The Curious Beginning

From day one, we started working with an open-source solution from Red Hat — ManageIQ. The initial team was small: a system administrator, an architect, and a developer. We studied the system architecture, dug into the code, frameworks, and built-in features. I proposed creating a client-facing management panel — and the idea was approved.

I built an MVP of the portal, the integrator configured the interaction with VMware, and after a successful demo, the project got the green light. We hired a frontend developer and continued developing the product towards production.

Import Substitution and Organizational Struggles

When sanctions hit, we had to test a domestic virtualization system (oVirt). Meanwhile, the team was growing — but without proper technical screening. Some hires quickly left.

In summer 2023, a new project manager joined. His management style was purely formal: oversight without involvement, tasks with no structure, and communication without content. Jira took months to launch, and tasks came without description or logic.

Team Formation and Infrastructure Growth

The team expanded with juniors of various engagement levels. Some ignored feedback, others dodged responsibility. The sysadmin left, while the manager continued building the illusion of progress.

Contract Ends — What’s Left?

By the end of the contract, less than half of the original requirements had been met. Team motivation dropped, tasks remained unfinished. "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" is "on the shelf." Expectation and reality.

In parallel, the infrastructure developed. But communication within the team completely degraded.

Debriefing

After a New Year break, conflict became a management tactic, which was the last straw. Work stopped, and trust hit rock bottom.

Key Takeaways

• You can build a private cloud on ManageIQ — but it requires technical independence and consistency.
• One toxic and incompetent team member can derail the entire process.
• A weak team can’t be saved even with a solid budget.