Cloud migration is no longer a “what if” – it’s a “when and how.” Yet, despite the urgency, only one-third of organizations have a defined cloud strategy, according to Gartner. That means many companies are still unsure about which systems to move, how to move them, or what to expect after migration.
Let’s simplify it for you. In this blog, we’ll cover:
→ Why cloud migration matters now more than ever
→ Microsoft’s cloud migration strategies (the 6 Rs)
→ What role Azure and Dynamics 365 play
→ Common business questions, answered
→ A roadmap tailored to your organization
Why Migrate to the Cloud in 2025?
Organizations today expect faster deployment, reduced IT costs, and secure infrastructure. The cloud makes all of that possible, but it’s more than just storage.
It’s about scaling your products, simplifying app development, improving security posture, and future-proofing operations – especially if you’re invested in Microsoft tools like Azure and Dynamics 365.
Top Questions Executives Still Ask
→ Is migrating to cloud necessary?
→ Should we move everything or just a few systems?
→ Should we go hybrid – and if yes, which systems stay on-premises?
→ How do we maintain security and performance after migration?
The good news? These aren’t just technology questions – they’re strategy questions. And Microsoft has answers.
Microsoft's 6 Cloud Migration Strategies (The 6 Rs)
Microsoft Cloud Adoption Framework classifies cloud migration into six actionable approaches:
| Strategy | Description |
|---|---|
| Rehost | Lift-and-shift existing apps to the cloud with minimal change. |
| Refactor | Modify apps for better performance in the cloud. |
| Rearchitect | Rebuild core components for cloud-native functionality. |
| Rebuild | Start fresh using cloud-native services. |
| Replace | Use SaaS apps like Dynamics 365 to replace legacy solutions. |
| Retire | Decommission outdated or unused systems. |
Each “R” is tailored to business needs, application complexity, and infrastructure maturity.
Why Microsoft Azure and Dynamics 365?
If your organization already uses Microsoft tools, here’s why aligning with Azure and Dynamics 365 makes strategic sense:
Enterprise-grade Security – Azure and D365 are built with zero-trust frameworks and strong identity controls.
Integration – Native interoperability between Microsoft tools (Teams, Power Platform, SharePoint, etc.).
Scalability on Demand – Adjust computing resources as your needs grow – no overprovisioning.
Analytics Ready – Plug into Power BI and Azure Synapse for real-time insights.
Cloud Migration Roadmap: Step-by-Step
Set Your Goals
Start with the business outcomes you want – lower costs, faster delivery, or data unification.Assess Your Portfolio
Identify which systems make sense to migrate, refactor, or retire.Build a Roadmap
Prioritize low-risk, high-value apps first. Plan phased rollouts aligned with organizational impact.Implement
Execute in sprints, monitor performance, and iterate with minimal disruption.Optimize & Secure
Post-migration, tune performance, set up governance, and reinforce cybersecurity policies.
Real-World Benefits
🔹 Faster time-to-market for new apps
🔹 Cost reductions on hardware and on-prem support
🔹 Business continuity with built-in disaster recovery
🔹 Modernized IT without hiring a full dev team
How Alphavima Can Help
At Alphavima, we specialize in cloud strategy for organizations using Microsoft Dynamics 365, Azure, and the Power Platform. We’ll help you:
Design cloud-first architectures
Execute secure, compliant migrations
Align technology with business outcomes
Make the most of your Microsoft ecosystem investment
Whether you’re rehosting legacy ERP, integrating a hybrid model, or planning a greenfield app on Power Apps – we’re your partner in getting there.
Final Thoughts
Cloud migration isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey – but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming either. The right strategy, tools, and partner (like Alphavima Technologies Inc.) can turn a complex process into a growth opportunity.
Ready to plan your cloud migration the Microsoft way?
Let’s build your custom roadmap – Contact Us
Ready to simplify your cloud migration journey?
Move your data and apps securely with expert-led Microsoft Cloud migration strategies tailored for 2025 and beyond.
FAQs
Who should consider cloud migration services?
Organizations of all sizes - from small businesses to large enterprises - can benefit from cloud migration services. Companies running legacy ERP, CRM, or custom applications, particularly those facing performance issues, high maintenance costs, or limited scalability, are ideal candidates. Businesses seeking to integrate with Microsoft technologies like Azure, Dynamics 365, and Power Platform should also consider migration to modernize their operations, improve resilience, and support digital transformation goals.
Why is cloud migration important in 2025?
Cloud migration is essential for reducing IT costs, improving speed to market, and enhancing security. With growing demands for scalability and business continuity, companies are moving to the cloud to future-proof operations.
What are Microsoft’s cloud migration strategies?
Microsoft’s Cloud Adoption Framework outlines 6 cloud migration strategies (The 6 Rs):
Rehost – Lift and shift
Refactor – Modify apps for performance
Rearchitect – Rebuild for cloud-native capabilities
Rebuild – Start fresh with cloud-native services
Replace – Move to SaaS apps like Dynamics 365
Retire – Decommission unused systems
How do I know which systems to migrate first?
Start by assessing business value and complexity. Prioritize:
Low-risk, high-impact apps
Systems with aging infrastructure
Workloads that benefit most from cloud scalability or integration
What role does Microsoft Azure play in cloud migration?
Azure offers secure, scalable infrastructure and integrates with Microsoft services like Dynamics 365, Power Platform, and Microsoft 365. It supports hybrid environments and zero-trust security models-ideal for phased or full migration paths.
Can I migrate on-prem ERP systems to the cloud?
Yes. You can rehost or refactor ERP systems (like legacy Dynamics AX or NAV) to Azure or transition to cloud-native ERP platforms like Dynamics 365 Business Central or Finance & Operations.
What are the real-world benefits of migrating to the cloud?
Key benefits include:
Faster go-to-market
Reduced infrastructure and maintenance costs
Built-in disaster recovery and backup
Enhanced scalability and app performance
Improved agility with modern DevOps and security tools
What is a typical cloud migration roadmap?
Set goals (cost, agility, unification)
Assess portfolio (migrate, refactor, retire)
Build roadmap (pilot > migrate > optimize)
Implement with minimal disruption
Optimize & secure post-migration
What’s the best cloud migration approach for Microsoft Dynamics 365?
Start with rehosting or replacing legacy CRM/ERP with D365 modules. Use Azure services to extend and secure workloads.
How can Alphavima help with cloud migration?
Alphavima helps organizations using Azure, Power Platform, and Dynamics 365 by:
Designing secure cloud architectures
Executing migration strategies
Aligning outcomes to business goals
Supporting hybrid, SaaS, or greenfield implementations