How I Migrated My Docassemble Server From AWS to DigitalOcean

I run a docassemble server at work, ostensibly introducing co-workers to a different way of using templates to generate their agreements. It's been pretty useful, so much so that I use it myself for my work. However, due to the pandemic, it's not been easy to go and sell it. Maybe I am going to have better luck soon.

In the meantime, I decided to move the server from AWS to DigitalOcean.

Why move?

I liked the wide variety of features available on AWS, such as CodeCommit, Lambda and SES. DigitalOcean is not comparable in that regard. If I wanted to create a whole suite of services for my application, I would probably find something on AWS's glorious one-page filled with services.

However, with great functions come great complexity. I had a headache trying to exploit them. I was not going to be able to make full use of their ecosystem. (I shall never scoff at AWS certification anymore.)

On the other hand, I was more familiar with DigitalOcean and liked their straightforward pricing. So, if I wanted to move my pet project somewhere, I would have liked it to be in my backyard.

Let's get moving!