The lean model for continuous improvement looks something like this:
Where you start is a matter of some debate, as is the direction of flow. However, most people start with the idea of building a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) as an experiment; measuring the results; and then learning from the measures they recorded, which then feeds into the next build of the product.
What is an MVP for a Database Reliability Engineer (DBRE)? A good, old-fashioned manual install. A best practices manual install.