Choosing the right mix of Microsoft technologies is not just a technical decision—it is an architectural choice that shapes how your system performs, scales, and evolves over time. With options ranging from low-code tools like Power Apps to enterprise platforms like Dynamics 365 and fully custom development with .NET and Azure, the Microsoft ecosystem offers multiple paths to achieve the same goal.
But each path comes with trade-offs. Some stacks accelerate internal workflow automation. Others support high-traffic, custom-built applications. Some prioritize rapid delivery, while others emphasize long-term extensibility.
This guide breaks down how different Microsoft components complement each other, what problems they are designed to solve, and how real-world teams combine them to create efficient, scalable systems.
Why Your Stack Choice Matters
The technology stack you choose shapes how your software scales, how quickly you can deliver features, and how much you will spend on maintenance over the coming years. A well-structured Microsoft stack reduces technical debt, improves integration reliability, and provides a clearer path for future modernization.
Core Stack Configurations
.NET + Azure
Overview
A cloud-first, future-proof combination suitable for web platforms, APIs, SaaS products, and enterprise systems requiring global reach and strong security. It offers the broadest architectural flexibility—from monoliths to microservices to serverless.
Key Benefits
- Supports microservices, event-driven systems, and serverless functions
- Global scalability with built-in resilience and security
- Full DevOps toolchain (CI/CD, monitoring, automation)
- Excellent for long-term maintainability and complex integrations
SharePoint + Power Platform
Overview
A configuration ideal for internal systems, workflow-heavy operations, document management, approval processes, and digital workplace tools. Power Apps and Power Automate enable rapid development with minimal custom code.
Key Benefits
- Fast delivery of business workflows
- Deep integration with Teams, Outlook, and Dynamics 365
- Ideal for document-centric or compliance-heavy workflows
- Reduces custom development cost and maintenance effort
Dynamics 365 + Azure
Overview
Best for customer-facing systems such as CRM, sales operations, field service management, and service centers. Dynamics 365 covers business processes out of the box, while Azure provides customization and advanced analytics.
Key Benefits
- Mature built-in workflows for sales, service, and operations
- Extensible through Azure Functions and Dataverse
- Ideal for enterprises needing cross-department coordination
- Reduces custom build time for standard business processes
Hybrid (On-Prem + Cloud)
Overview
A balanced approach for organizations migrating gradually or operating under strict data residency or compliance requirements. Legacy systems remain on-premise, while new capabilities are added through Azure services.
- Safe and controlled cloud migration
- Keeps sensitive workloads on-premise
- Enhances legacy systems without a full rebuild
- Good transition model for regulated industries
A Practical Example
Scenario: Modernizing a Logistics Platform
A mid-size logistics company operated a ten-year-old on-premise system that handled shipment tracking, customer orders, and warehouse operations. The system struggled with peak traffic, manual workflows, and limited integration options.
Their challenges included:
- Slow processing during seasonal demand
- No real-time visibility for partners
- Growing need for automated workflows
- Pressure to provide mobile access
The chosen configuration: .NET + Azure + Power Platform
Why this worked:
- .NET and Azure provided a scalable, API-driven backbone for real-time tracking
- Azure Functions were used to process large bursts of tracking events
- Power Apps delivered an internal warehouse app within weeks
- Power Automate replaced manual email-based approval processes
Outcome:
The system scaled to handle peak traffic without downtime, internal processes became 30% faster, and the company avoided a full rebuild of every internal tool by using Power Platform extensions.
How to Decide
Before selecting technologies, evaluate your system through four practical lenses:
- Growth expectations (24–36 months)
- Compliance and data residency constraints
- Integration with existing systems and business tools
- Need for rapid delivery vs. long-term flexibility
This simple framework prevents over-engineering and ensures your stack matches real business needs—not just trends.
Choosing the right combination of Azure, .NET, Power Platform, SharePoint, or Dynamics 365 can shape your system for years to come. If you’re planning a modernization, evaluating your architecture, or exploring which configuration best fits your business goals, our team can help you make the right decision and execute it with confidence.