The AWS Migration Acceleration Program MAP is AWS's structured approach to large-scale cloud migration, combining proven methodology, financial credits, and migration tooling into a comprehensive program designed for enterprise adoption. MAP has evolved through multiple iterations — the current MAP 2.0 framework introduces automated workload tagging, enhanced partner collaboration tools, and streamlined credit tracking that makes the program easier to manage at scale.
This guide provides a detailed walkthrough of the MAP framework, its three-phase methodology, available funding mechanisms, and practical guidance for maximizing program benefits.
Understanding the MAP Framework
MAP is built on the AWS Cloud Adoption Framework (AWS CAF) and structures migration into three phases: Assess, Mobilize, and Migrate/Modernize. Each phase has specific deliverables, tools, and success criteria that guide the migration from initial planning through execution and optimization. The framework is designed for organizations migrating 20 or more servers and provides a repeatable methodology that reduces risk and accelerates timelines.
Phase 1: Assess
The assessment phase builds the business case for migration by evaluating your current environment, estimating costs, and identifying migration risks. Key deliverables include:
- Workload discovery using AWS Application Discovery Service or partner tools
- Total cost of ownership comparison between on-premises and AWS
- Migration readiness assessment across six CAF perspectives
- Initial migration wave plan with workload prioritization
- MAP funding application and credit estimation
This phase typically takes 4-8 weeks and results in a documented business case that justifies the migration investment to stakeholders.
Phase 2: Mobilize
Mobilize establishes the technical and organizational foundation for migration execution. Activities include designing and deploying an AWS landing zone with proper account structure, security controls, and networking. Teams receive training on AWS services and migration tools. Pilot migrations validate the approach and tooling before scaling to production workloads.
Phase 3: Migrate and Modernize
The execution phase moves workloads to AWS in planned waves, with each workload following the most appropriate migration strategy. The 6 Rs framework guides workload-level decisions:
- Rehost: Lift and shift — fastest approach for compatible workloads
- Replatform: Minor optimizations during migration (e.g., moving to managed databases)
- Repurchase: Replace with SaaS alternatives
- Refactor: Re-architect for cloud-native benefits
- Retire: Decommission unneeded applications
- Retain: Keep on-premises where migration is not justified
MAP 2.0 Enhancements
MAP 2.0 introduced several improvements that streamline program administration and tracking. Automated workload tagging with MAP tags enables accurate credit tracking. Enhanced partner tooling improves collaboration between customers, AWS, and migration partners. Expanded modernization support covers containerization, serverless refactoring, and database modernization alongside traditional lift-and-shift migrations.
Funding and Credits
MAP credits reduce the financial barrier to migration by offsetting costs for tooling, infrastructure, and partner services during the migration period. Credit amounts depend on migration scope, workload complexity, and the level of modernization undertaken. AWS adjusts credits based on whether workloads are rehosted or refactored — modernization typically earns higher credit rates.
Migration Tools
AWS provides purpose-built tools for each stage of the migration lifecycle.
| Tool | Purpose | Phase |
|---|---|---|
| Application Discovery Service | Discover on-premises servers and dependencies | Assess |
| Migration Evaluator | Build data-driven business cases | Assess |
| Control Tower | Set up and govern multi-account landing zones | Mobilize |
| Application Migration Service | Automate server migrations | Migrate |
| Database Migration Service | Migrate databases with continuous replication | Migrate |
| AWS Transform | Track migration progress and workload status | All phases |
Best Practices
Successful MAP engagements follow proven patterns that minimize risk and maximize program value.
- Complete a thorough assessment before committing to migration timelines
- Tag workloads properly from day one for accurate credit tracking
- Start with less complex workloads to build migration momentum
- Plan modernization activities alongside migration rather than as a separate phase
- Establish clear success metrics and track them throughout the program
Learn about Opsio's migration consulting services.
How Opsio Supports MAP
Opsio partners with organizations through every MAP phase — from initial assessment through post-migration managed operations. Our team handles MAP application paperwork, delivers assessments aligned to AWS CAF, designs landing zones, executes migrations, and provides ongoing cloud management after migration completes.