What Is a Technology Stack? Tech Stacks Explained
- Richard Keenlyside
- Oct 23, 2025
- 4 min read
TL;DR:
A technology stack is a set of software tools, frameworks, and systems that work together to power applications and business operations. This guide explains the components, benefits, and strategic importance of tech stacks for organisations looking to scale and innovate.
Introduction: Why Every Business Leader Must Understand the Technology Stack
In the digital era, technology is the backbone of business. From small startups to global enterprises, organisations depend on a complex combination of software tools and platforms known as a technology stack or tech stack. For business leaders and CIOs, understanding your technology stack isn’t optional — it's essential to driving digital transformation, achieving competitive advantage, and ensuring future scalability.
Richard Keenlyside, a Global CIO and Transformation Director, explains why defining the right IT stack can be the difference between stagnation and success.
What Is a Technology Stack?
A technology stack is a structured set of technologies used to build and run applications and manage business operations. It typically includes:
Frontend (Client Side) – The interface users interact with, e.g., HTML, CSS, JavaScript frameworks like React or Angular.
Backend (Server Side) – The server, database, and application logic, e.g., Node.js, Python, Java, .NET, and databases like MySQL or MongoDB.
Infrastructure – The foundation, such as cloud services (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud), operating systems, containerisation (Docker), and orchestration (Kubernetes).
Each component in the software stack plays a vital role in delivering a seamless user experience and efficient data processing.
Why Your Tech Stack Matters More Than Ever
Choosing the right tech stack directly influences:
Scalability: Can your systems grow with demand?
Speed to Market: Does your stack enable rapid development?
Security: Are your technologies aligned with the latest cybersecurity standards?
Cost Efficiency: Are you overspending on legacy systems or underutilised tools?
Talent Acquisition: Modern developers prefer modern stacks. Outdated tech can hinder recruitment.
With experience leading digital transformation across retail, manufacturing, financial services, and logistics, Richard Keenlyside has helped organisations reduce tech debt by £2M+ and improve productivity by over 40%.
Popular Technology Stacks in 2025
Here are common technology stacks organisations use today:
Web Development Stacks
MEAN: MongoDB, Express.js, Angular, Node.js
MERN: MongoDB, Express.js, React, Node.js
LAMP: Linux, Apache, MySQL, PHP
Enterprise Stacks
Microsoft Stack: Azure, .NET, SQL Server, Power Platform
Java Stack: Spring Boot, Hibernate, Apache Tomcat, Oracle DB
ERP Suites: SAP S/4HANA, Oracle Fusion, Microsoft Dynamics, NetSuite
Cloud-Native Stacks
Containers and DevOps: Docker, Kubernetes, Jenkins, Terraform
Monitoring Tools: Prometheus, Grafana, ELK Stack (Elasticsearch, Logstash, Kibana)
How to Choose the Right Tech Stack for Your Business
Richard Keenlyside recommends a strategic approach:
1. Define Business Goals
Your tech stack should align with business priorities: growth, agility, compliance, or innovation.
2. Evaluate Legacy Systems
Legacy platforms often block transformation. Consider cloud migration and integration with modern APIs.
Explore his cloud migration and cost optimisation guide here:➡ Cloud Migration Strategy
3. Prioritise Interoperability
Select technologies that integrate seamlessly across your IT landscape and vendor ecosystems.
4. Consider Your Talent Pool
Choose tools your current (or future) team is proficient in — technology without talent is a liability.
5. Leverage Fractional CIO Expertise
An experienced fractional CIO can assess, realign, and future-proof your stack without long-term costs.➡ Learn more: Fractional CIO Services
Benefits of a Well-Architected Tech Stack
Reduced Technical Debt
Faster Product Development
Improved Data Analytics
Enhanced User Experience
Operational Resilience and Security
A cohesive IT stack underpins everything from ecommerce success to ERP stability and AI readiness.
Real-World Example: Driving Value Through Stack Consolidation
At a global manufacturing firm, Richard Keenlyside led the transition from on-premise servers to a unified Azure cloud stack, standardising systems across 13 business units. This reduced tech debt by £2 million and delivered a five-year IT strategy that supported enterprise growth in multiple countries.
For full insight, visit the About Page or view Richard’s expertise.
FAQs: Technology Stacks Simplified
Q1: Is a tech stack only relevant to software companies? No. Every business — whether in retail, logistics, or manufacturing — runs on technology. Your stack powers operations, not just software.
Q2: Can I modernise my tech stack incrementally?Yes. A phased approach is recommended to minimise disruption while achieving long-term transformation.
Q3: What role does cloud computing play in a tech stack? Cloud services provide scalability, security, and cost efficiency. Most modern stacks are cloud-first by design.
Q4: How does a tech stack impact cybersecurity? Outdated stacks introduce risk. A modern stack integrates security by design — including threat detection, access control, and compliance tools.
Q5: What is a full-stack developer? A full-stack developer works on both frontend and backend technologies — understanding the entire application stack.
Final Thoughts: Your Tech Stack Is Your Business DNA
Technology stacks are more than tools — they are strategic assets. They shape how you build, operate, scale, and secure your business. For SMEs to large enterprises, getting your technology stack right is non-negotiable in today’s digital-first world.
If your tech stack is holding you back, it may be time to get external expertise.
Call to Action: Unlock the Full Potential of Your Tech Stack
💡 Book a free strategic consultation with Richard Keenlyside to audit your current stack and create a roadmap for transformation.✅ Reduce costs✅ Accelerate digital delivery✅ Improve scalability and security
👉 Schedule your free 30-minute consultation here: https://www.rjk.info/
You may also find useful:
Further external insights into Technology stacks
Richard Keenlyside is a Global CIO, PE&MA Advisor, Endava TAC and a former IT Director for J Sainsbury’s PLC.Call me on +44(0) 1642 040 268 or email richard@rjk.info.
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Also, visit my other CIO website: https://richardkeenlysidecio.com/
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