Graphite transitioned from a simple single-page application (SPA) deployment to a robust containerized environment using AWS ECS to better manage, deploy, and scale their Next.js application. This shift was driven by the need for enhanced scalability, performance, and cost efficiency as their platform and user base grew, moving away from the limitations of their previous SPA setup hosted on S3. After considering various hosting options, including Vercel and AWS Amplify, Graphite chose ECS for its alignment with their AWS VPC preferences, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to unify frontend and backend hosting strategies. This decision allowed them to implement sophisticated deployment strategies, such as blue-green deployments, while maintaining performance and security within their AWS infrastructure. The migration involved adopting best practices such as optimizing for cold starts, automating infrastructure with Terraform, and managing costs effectively, ensuring their ECS-hosted applications remain robust and scalable. Through this journey, Graphite emphasizes the importance of evaluating infrastructure needs, embracing containerization, investing in automation, and staying flexible to adapt to new technologies.