{"id":18806,"date":"2025-04-03T09:05:00","date_gmt":"2025-04-03T16:05:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/?p=18806"},"modified":"2025-12-31T15:19:38","modified_gmt":"2025-12-31T23:19:38","slug":"reflecting-on-50-years-of-it-at-microsoft-five-key-lessons-and-insights-on-the-future","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/reflecting-on-50-years-of-it-at-microsoft-five-key-lessons-and-insights-on-the-future\/","title":{"rendered":"Reflecting on 50 years of IT at Microsoft: Five key lessons and insights on the future"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As Microsoft celebrates its 50th anniversary, it&#8217;s a fitting time to reflect on the transformative journey of Microsoft Digital, the team that\u2019s been responsible for powering, protecting, and transforming the digital employee experience across devices, applications, and infrastructure at the company since the dawn of information technology.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<aside class=\"wp-block-group aside-for-guide has-white-200-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-content-justification-right is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-3f1abf08 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:10px;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--spacing-12);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--spacing-12);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--spacing-12);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--spacing-12)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-298f84b7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:0;padding-bottom:0\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"132\" height=\"132\" src=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/10\/Engage-with-our-experts_blogs.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-20636\" style=\"width:48px\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-body-lg-font-size wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Engage with our experts!<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--spacing-4)\">Customers or Microsoft account team representatives from Fortune 500 companies are welcome to <a href=\"mailto:msitstaff@microsoft.com\">request a virtual engagement<\/a> on this topic with experts from our Microsoft Digital team.<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The role of IT at most organizations has experienced profound evolution over the past several decades, and Microsoft is no exception. From humble beginnings with Bill Gates and Paul Allen programming and debugging simple applications on the MITS Altair 8800 to the current era of sleek, powerful devices (some that fit in the palms of our hands), the ways we interact with technology have changed dramatically. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/04\/Nathalie-DHers.png\" alt=\"A photo of D'Hers.\" class=\"wp-image-21695\" style=\"width:150px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/04\/Nathalie-DHers.png 500w, https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/04\/Nathalie-DHers-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/04\/Nathalie-DHers-150x150.png 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cThe main tenets of the modern engineering era at Microsoft Digital are being vision-led; embracing user-centric, coherent design; fostering innovation to drive exceptional employee experiences; and prioritizing our role as Customer Zero to create a blueprint for our customers to follow.&#8221;<\/p>\n<cite>Nathalie D&#8217;Hers, corporate vice president, Microsoft Employee Experience<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And just like the internet became an indispensable tool for global commerce and connection, the advent of cloud computing and advances in AI, machine learning, and automation are enabling the next IT revolution, which has already greatly enhanced efficiency and unlocked new possibilities for organizations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nathalie D\u2019Hers, who led Microsoft Digital for 10 years and is now corporate vice president of Employee Experience at the company, explains how the organization&#8217;s purpose has evolved from a purely IT role to a more modern, AI vision-led engineering function.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cThe main tenets of the modern engineering era at Microsoft Digital are being vision-led; embracing user-centric, coherent design; fostering innovation to drive exceptional employee experiences; and prioritizing our role as Customer Zero to create a blueprint for our customers to follow,\u201d D\u2019Hers says.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Recently, I had the privilege of speaking with D\u2019Hers and some other Microsoft leaders. During our conversations, they shared significant lessons learned and profound experiences from their time at the company. They also provided valuable insights into the future, as we look ahead to the next 50 years of IT.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Several themes emerged from our discussions, themes that they believe have enabled Microsoft to lead the IT revolution over the last 50 years, and that will shape the future of technology for the next five decades and beyond.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Digital transformation is a continuous journey<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Digital transformation isn\u2019t a one-time event; it\u2019s a continuous journey that involves integrating technologies to stay competitive and to improve customer and employee experiences. In the past 50 years, there have been multiple stages of digital transformation, from adopting basic IT systems to embracing modern technologies like AI, machine learning, Internet of Things (IoT), and automation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/04\/Monika-Gupta.png\" alt=\"A photo of Gupta.\" class=\"wp-image-21707\" style=\"width:150px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/04\/Monika-Gupta.png 500w, https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/04\/Monika-Gupta-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/04\/Monika-Gupta-150x150.png 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cFrom making solutions designed for enterprise scale, shipping software securely (on CDs or digitally) to building AI-driven experiences, from on-prem solutions to Azure\u2019s global cloud presence, and from traditional IT solutions to AI copilots reshaping productivity, we at Microsoft have been continuously innovating.\u201d<\/p>\n<cite>Monika Gupta, partner group engineering manager, Microsoft Digital<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The digital transformation of Microsoft spans the entire personal computing revolution, from the early days of DOS and Windows desktops through to our current era, which is highlighted by the rise of AI. Our transformation journey can be divided into four major eras:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>On-premises IT&nbsp;(1985 to 2009):<\/strong> Characterized by the setup, operation, and maintenance of onsite physical technology.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>Cloud and culture&nbsp;(2010-2017):<\/strong> Marked by our shift to the Microsoft Azure cloud and a cultural transformation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>Modern engineering&nbsp;(2017-2020):<\/strong> Focused on modernizing our engineering practices.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>AI (2020-present):<\/strong> Embracing AI to revolutionize IT services and operations.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"482\" src=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/04\/10718_graphic-1024x482.gif\" alt=\"Timeline graphic shows the four eras of Microsoft IT (on-premises IT, cloud and culture, modern engineering, and AI) along with major milestones in each era.\" class=\"wp-image-18810\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/04\/10718_graphic-1024x482.gif 1024w, https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/04\/10718_graphic-300x141.gif 300w, https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/04\/10718_graphic-768x362.gif 768w, https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/04\/10718_graphic-1536x723.gif 1536w, https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/04\/10718_graphic-2048x965.gif 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>The four eras of digital transformation of IT at Microsoft: On-premises IT, cloud and culture, modern engineering, and AI.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most leaders felt that both the era of cloud services and our present era of AI have been pivotal in redefining traditional IT services at Microsoft and that these technologies have revolutionized how we think about IT, making processes more efficient and scalable. And all of them mentioned that no matter what the era, robust security and governance play a critical role and are the backbone to any successful IT organization. Enabling a safe and compliant environment ensure that digital transformation&nbsp;leads to sustainable growth without compromising safety or trust.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Monika Gupta, a partner group engineering manager within Microsoft Digital who has been with Microsoft for nearly 20 years, reflects on her continuous digital transformation journey at the company.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cWhen I joined Microsoft in 2006, Windows XP was still king, Internet Explorer ruled the web, the mobile revolution was starting, and the idea of cloud computing was a distant dream,\u201d Gupta says. \u201cI\u2019ve had the privilege of working in a variety of roles across the company, witnessing and contributing to some of the most transformative shifts in technology. From making solutions designed for enterprise scale, shipping software securely (on CDs or digitally) to building AI-driven experiences, from on-prem solutions to Azure\u2019s global cloud presence, and from traditional IT solutions to AI copilots reshaping productivity, we at Microsoft have been continuously innovating.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Continuous change means change management is critical<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Technological changes can be disruptive, requiring significant shifts in processes, individual behavior, and organization culture. Without effective change management, organizations risk facing resistance from employees, disrupted workflows, and ultimately, failure to fully capitalize on the benefits of new technologies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Within Microsoft Digital, change management best practices have been critically important to our success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/04\/Andrew-Osten.png\" alt=\"A photo of Osten.\" class=\"wp-image-21710\" style=\"width:150px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/04\/Andrew-Osten.png 500w, https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/04\/Andrew-Osten-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/04\/Andrew-Osten-150x150.png 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cDedicated focus on change management is critical within large enterprises when you\u2019re attempting to improve or evolve business processes and drive adoption of technology changes that directly benefit users.\u201d<\/p>\n<cite>Andrew Osten, general manager of Business Operations and Programs, Microsoft Digital<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As Microsoft is a global enterprise with more than 220,000 employees worldwide, it\u2019s imperative that we have a well-executed change management plan in place to help guide our employees each time there is any major transition, starting from piloting to gathering localized feedback from employees across the globe, through to initial deployment and subsequent full adoption of the technology.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This includes several best practices including clearly communicating the reasons for change, providing adequate and thorough training in various forms, and targeted activities post deployment, in addition to using adoption data insights to help our employees adapt to the new technology. Moreover, change management helps to align technology upgrades with organizational goals by ensuring that all stakeholders are involved and that there is a shared vision and collective buy-in for the future. When employees feel prepared and supported, including sufficient active sponsorship from leadership, they are more likely to embrace new systems, leading to greater productivity and innovation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And we know that a well-executed change management plan fosters a culture of continuous improvement. By building a framework for managing change, we have ensured that our technological shifts are met with less resistance and greater success. Ultimately, successful change management is not just about technology, it\u2019s about enabling the people and processes that will use the technology and ensuring that the focus is on the benefits to the users rather than the technology itself to achieve the desired outcomes of digital transformation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With a career at Microsoft that spans more than 20 years, Andrew Osten, general manager of Business Operations and Programs for Microsoft Digital, talks about the key role change management plays within Microsoft.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cDedicated focus on change management is critical within large enterprises when you\u2019re attempting to improve or evolve business processes and drive adoption of technology changes that directly benefit users,\u201d Osten says. \u201cOur team has recognized the importance of investing time and talent into crafting an operationalized adoption program with proven techniques that help accelerate both user and company ROI from our IT investments.\u201d<strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. The role of IT is a customer-first experience<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the most significant lessons learned came from Trent Berghofer, general manager of the Microsoft Digital Modern Support team. It&#8217;s a trifecta of sorts, focused on the importance of leading with a customer-centric approach combined with operational excellence and cutting-edge technology.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/04\/Trent-Berghofer.png\" alt=\"A photo of Berghofer.\" class=\"wp-image-21712\" style=\"width:150px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/04\/Trent-Berghofer.png 500w, https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/04\/Trent-Berghofer-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/04\/Trent-Berghofer-150x150.png 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cOne of the first times I ever did an IT portfolio initiative check-in with an internal VP in our sales organization, I was fortunate that the executive made time for some coaching at the end of our session. His feedback was along the lines of \u2018This looks like great work, but what are you doing to make me and my team successful?\u2019 I\u2019ll never forget this feedback, and I\u2019ve incorporated this customer-first mindset into all my decision making ever since.&#8221;<\/p>\n<cite>Trent Berghofer, general manager, Microsoft Digital Modern Support team<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">User experience (UX) and stakeholder satisfaction are central to all of Microsoft Digital\u2019s technology investments. And as the value of customer data, personalized experiences and seamless customer service have become increasingly more important throughout the years, IT systems that support these functions have become integral to business success, boosting not only customer loyalty but revenues as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Berghofer, a 26-year veteran of Microsoft, reflects on a time early in his career when the idea that leading with a customer-centric approach rang loud and clear for him. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cOne of the first times I ever did an IT portfolio initiative check-in with an internal VP in our sales organization, I was fortunate that the executive made time for some coaching at the end of our session,\u201d Berghofer says. \u201cHis feedback was along the lines of \u2018This looks to be great work, but what are you doing to make me and my team successful?\u2019 I\u2019ll never forget this feedback, and I\u2019ve incorporated this customer-first mindset into all my decision making ever since.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. People and talent are our greatest asset<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A main theme that\u2019s consistent among every leader of Microsoft Digital is that IT isn\u2019t just about technology; it\u2019s about having the right people and culture that\u2019s the cornerstone for success. Investing in people with not only the skills, but also the commitment, to drive innovation and providing opportunities for training and development to upskill employees results in more agility in adapting to technological changes. Something everyone felt is critically important in the ever-changing and evolving IT landscape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The journey within Microsoft Digital has been remarkable not just because of all the technological advances, but also because of the unique culture of the organization. Because the role of IT continues to evolve, it\u2019s important that you have people who are willing to evolve as well. Having a good mix of individuals with strong technical skills, problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and effective communication is critical. Cultivating a culture of collaboration, continuous learning, and innovation, and where employees feel empowered to experiment, fail fast, and grow from their mistakes are all important factors in a successful IT organization.&nbsp; &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">D\u2019Hers, who not only led Microsoft Digital and the teams that preceded it for more than a decade but is also a 25-year veteran of Microsoft, characterizes the organization\u2019s culture as one that exudes a collective enthusiasm and provides a winning combination of passion, resilience, grit, and teamwork.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cBeyond the technology, what has made this journey truly special is the culture we\u2019ve created together,\u201d D\u2019Hers says. \u201cIt\u2019s a shared passion for solving the complex challenges, the resilience we have to embracing constant change, and the camaraderie we have that can turn even the hardest of issues into learning experiences and growth.\u201d<strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. AI is the future of IT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As we celebrate 50 years of IT at Microsoft, it&#8217;s exciting to envision the future, especially as AI continues to transform the world and our lives. It will no doubt play a critical role in the function and future of IT. Together with continuous improvement (CI), AI and machine learning will enable greater automation and self-serve functions, meeting users where and how they work, and will be central to improving efficiency and enhancing customer experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cAgentic AI can act as an intelligent companion that can autonomously reason and adapt to changing environments.\u201d<\/p>\n<cite>Monika Panpaliya, partner director of Product Management, Microsoft Digital <\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From AI-powered agents integrated with Microsoft 365 Copilot, to chatbots providing customer support to AI-driven supply chain optimization, the ongoing shift toward better automation is not only reshaping IT, but every single industry from manufacturing, retail, to even healthcare.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As Monika Panpaliya, partner director of the Product Management team and the newest member of the Microsoft Digital leadership team, shares how AI agents are poised to transform IT.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;Agentic AI can act as an intelligent companion that can autonomously reason and adapt to changing environments,\u201d Panpaliya says. \u201cIt operationalizes decision-making and collaborates with humans to enhance efficiency and effectiveness across various domains, such as network security, helpdesk support, and HR processes.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fifty years of IT evolution at Microsoft has taught us valuable lessons about agility, innovation, people and culture, and the critical importance of technology in maintaining competitive advantage. There is no doubt that just like the last five decades, IT will continue to rapidly evolve; companies who want to continue to succeed will need to remain adaptable, constantly exploring new technologies and making sure they align with the changing needs of their workforce and customers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our digital transformation journey at Microsoft has been marked by continuous innovation, and the next 50 years promise to be just as transformative!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-content-justification-left is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-c0392459 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-right:0;padding-left:0\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-7db9d80f wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-right:0;padding-left:0\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"190\" height=\"190\" src=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/07\/Key-takeaways-badge.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-19493\" style=\"object-fit:cover;width:75px;height:75px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/07\/Key-takeaways-badge.png 190w, https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/07\/Key-takeaways-badge-150x150.png 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 190px) 100vw, 190px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-body-xl-font-size wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--spacing-24);margin-bottom:0;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--spacing-24)\">Key takeaways<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are some of the key learnings we\u2019ve had on our decades-long journey as the company\u2019s IT organization:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>IT has drastically evolved over the years<\/strong> and is no longer considered \u201cjust a support function\u201d like it once was. It\u2019s now a fundamental driver of business success.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>Agility, innovation, and having the right people<\/strong> are big keys to running a successful IT organization.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>Investing in people is critical.<\/strong> Make sure your workforce has the skills to keep pace with technological advancements.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-content-justification-left is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-c0392459 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-right:0;padding-left:0\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-7db9d80f wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-right:0;padding-left:0\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"190\" height=\"190\" src=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/07\/Try-it-out-badge.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-19492\" style=\"object-fit:cover;width:75px;height:75px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/07\/Try-it-out-badge.png 190w, https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/07\/Try-it-out-badge-150x150.png 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 190px) 100vw, 190px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-body-xl-font-size wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--spacing-24);margin-bottom:0;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--spacing-24)\">Try it out<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog?OCID=InsideTrack_Product_10718\">Visit our Microsoft Digital Inside Track website to learn more about how we\u2019re transforming the way we do IT at Microsoft.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-content-justification-left is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-c0392459 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-right:0;padding-left:0\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-7db9d80f wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-right:0;padding-left:0\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"190\" height=\"190\" src=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/07\/Related-links-badge.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-19491\" style=\"object-fit:cover;width:75px;height:75px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/07\/Related-links-badge.png 190w, https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/07\/Related-links-badge-150x150.png 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 190px) 100vw, 190px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-body-xl-font-size wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--spacing-24);margin-bottom:0;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--spacing-24)\">Related links<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--spacing-20)\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/digitally-transforming-microsoft-our-it-journey\/\">Learn more about our digital transformation journey here at Microsoft.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/powering-a-generational-shift-in-it-at-microsoft-with-ai\/\">Find out how we\u2019re helping propel Microsoft into the AI-powered future as a Frontier Firm.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/copilot-for-microsoft-365-for-executives-sharing-our-internal-deployment-and-adoption-journey-at-microsoft\/\">Read our guide for executives on deploying and driving adoption of Microsoft 365 Copilot.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/ai-powered-agents-in-action-how-were-embracing-this-new-agentic-moment-at-microsoft\/\">Check out how we\u2019re embracing this new \u2018agentic\u2019 moment at Microsoft.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/how-microsoft-digital-improves-its-own-employee-experience-and-yours-as-customer-zero\/\">Discover how we serve as the company\u2019s Customer Zero.<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-content-justification-left is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-c0392459 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-right:0;padding-left:0\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-7db9d80f wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-right:0;padding-left:0\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"190\" height=\"190\" src=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/07\/Wed-like-to-hear-from-you-badge.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-19490\" style=\"object-fit:cover;width:75px;height:75px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/07\/Wed-like-to-hear-from-you-badge.png 190w, https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/insidetrack\/blog\/uploads\/prod\/2025\/07\/Wed-like-to-hear-from-you-badge-150x150.png 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 190px) 100vw, 190px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-body-xl-font-size wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--spacing-24);margin-bottom:0;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--spacing-24)\">We&#8217;d like to hear from you!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--spacing-20)\" class=\"wp-block-list is-style-list-no-bullets\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"mailto:msitstaff@microsoft.com\">Want more information? Email us and include a link to this story and we\u2019ll get back to you.<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>As Microsoft celebrates its 50th anniversary, it&#8217;s a fitting time to reflect on the transformative journey of Microsoft Digital, the team that\u2019s been responsible for powering, protecting, and transforming the digital employee experience across devices, applications, and infrastructure at the company since the dawn of information technology. Engage with our experts! Customers or Microsoft account [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":127,"featured_media":18808,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":true,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_hide_featured_on_single":false,"_show_featured_caption_on_single":true,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[71,882],"tags":[199,89,850,852,827,849],"coauthors":[640],"class_list":["post-18806","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-featured","category-it-strategy","tag-ai","tag-digital-transformation","tag-end-user-services-and-support","tag-it-and-business-operations","tag-microsoft-365-copilot","tag-network-and-infrastructure","m-blog-post"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Reflecting on 50 years of IT at Microsoft: Five key lessons and insights on the future - 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