ABOUT THE CLIENT
The client is a local government organization responsible for providing a wide range of services to the residents of its jurisdiction. With a focus on delivering high-quality services efficiently and effectively, the client is committed to using technology to streamline operations and improve the delivery of services to its constituents. They wanted to embark on a cloud journey to enhance their technology systems and processes and were looking for end-to-end solution providers. This project of migrating its email and collaboration platform to Microsoft Office 365 marked the first step of its Cloud migration journey.
PROBLEM STATEMENT
The client is currently using an on-premises solution but is facing difficulties with the migration process. The goal of the project is to provide a seamless transition from the on-premises solution to Microsoft Office 365 for 1500 users and 3500 mailboxes. The project requires detailed discovery, assessment, solution architecture design, project management, and phased migration services along with professional services, project support, and transition to operations support systems administration. Additionally, the client needs shadowing, administration training and end-user training to be provided to the project resources.
CHALLENGES
Challenges faced by the client:
- The need to upgrade from their outdated email system to a more modern and efficient platform.
- The requirement for a seamless migration process with minimal downtime and disruption to their day-to-day operations.
- The challenge of properly configuring and managing the new email system to meet their specific needs and requirements.
- The need for proper training and knowledge transfer for both IT staff and end-users.
- Ensuring that their sensitive data remained secure and compliant with regulations during the migration process.
SOLUTION IMPLEMENTED
The solution of the Microsoft Office 365 Migration & Implementation project for the client was broken down into several phases, including:
- Discover, Design and Plan M-365 Architecture
- A pilot project to perform a dry run of the migration
- Scoping and Migration
- Knowledge Transfer and End-User Training
The objective was to provide the client with a solid plan that will make the migration process smoother and reduce the time and money spent on the migration process.
Planet of IT began by conducting a detailed analysis and gathering requirements to identify the business needs and future state technology initiatives, document security and access requirements, and gathered a list of mailboxes to be migrated. The existing network and infrastructure were also evaluated to ensure preparation for the deployment of Microsoft 365 services.
During the design and implementation phase, Planet of IT configured a new tenant and used tools such as AD Connect to perform On-prem to Cloud sync, ensuring a healthy sync and proper configuration of licenses. Then a pilot project was conducted to run a dry run of the migration before scoping and performing the migration using tools such as Migration wizard. Planet of IT ensured that all Mailboxes, Emails, Folders, Contacts, Calendars, Tasks, and emails accumulated by 1500 users over the years were properly moved into the cloud, making the transition smooth. Planet of IT was able to create a single sign-on integrated and simplified solution by moving users and resources to the cloud.
Finally, Planet of IT collated a final document package that included the architecture before migration and the architecture of the project migration, highlighting the changes made during the migration process. This comprehensive package was aimed at providing the client with a clear understanding of the migration process and its outcome.
With an approach of conducting a thorough analysis, proper planning, and execution, Planet of IT was able to provide an end-to-end solution for the client’s needs, making the transition to Office 365 seamless and efficient.
Results
The Microsoft Office 365 Migration & Implementation project undertaken by Planet of IT for the client was a resounding success. The migration of the client’s email and device management to Office 365 improved the efficiency and productivity of employees, enhanced data security and protection, streamlined mobile device management, and provided training for employees. The use of Teams and OneDrive established a clear communication channel with employees. The thorough planning process and knowledge transfer ensured a smooth transition and employees were able to adopt the new platform easily. The final document package provided valuable insights into the project and its outcomes. The project helped the client achieve their goals of improving their IT infrastructure and processes and they can now look forward to continued growth and success.
Overall, the successful migration was a result of the comprehensive planning and execution of the project by Planet of IT.