Microsoft Agent Framework

Beginner — What is MAF?

• Microsoft Agent Framework provides agents and explicit workflows.
• An agent handles model-driven interaction and tools; a workflow connects agents and functions through controlled execution paths.
• It builds on ideas from AutoGen and Semantic Kernel.

Intermediate — When do you use an agent versus a workflow?

• Use an agent for variable language interaction and bounded tool selection.
• Use a workflow when order, dependencies, approvals, or state transitions must be explicit.
• A business application often uses both.

Senior — MAF versus LangGraph?

• I compare ecosystem/language fit, state contracts, review/resume behavior, persistence guarantees, observability, and hosting.
• LangGraph starts from explicit state-graph orchestration; MAF provides agent and workflow abstractions in its ecosystem.
• The validated operational contract matters more than branding.

Scenario — A client already uses Semantic Kernel. Do you rewrite?

• I inventory maintained features, current support, and actual pain points.
• I prototype MAF behind stable tool contracts and compare evaluation/recovery behavior before migrating.
• A rename or new framework alone does not justify a risky rewrite.