Global Manufacturer - Cloud-to-Cloud Migration (Google to Microsoft)
A global manufacturer faced a strategic shift in technology direction, requiring the organisation to migrate from Google Workspace to Microsoft 365 cloud services. Although the organisation had been using Google services for only a few years, the transition was far from straightforward. The complexity of the migration necessitated a dual-system approach, where employees worked in both Google and Microsoft environments temporarily. Success depended on carefully managing change and securing employee engagement throughout the process.
Our team collaborated with the organisation to navigate this complex migration, ensuring minimal disruption while building a foundation for long-term operational success.
Challenges
Complex Migration Requirements: Moving back to Microsoft systems was not a simple switch, requiring employees to operate in both systems for a transitional period.
Global Scale: The organisation’s extensive global footprint added logistical challenges and varying regional needs.
User Behavior and Engagement: Employees needed clear guidance and support to adapt to the dual-system environment and contribute to a successful transition.
Uncertainty Around Changes: Pilots and ongoing technology confirmations meant that the migration strategy needed to remain flexible and adaptive.
Approach
1. Change Impact Assessment
Conducted a detailed Change Impact Assessment with teams across the organisation to understand specific challenges and requirements.
Developed a change strategy based on insights from the assessment, ensuring alignment with organisational goals.
Regularly updated the assessment to reflect insights from pilots and confirmed technology changes.
2. Champions Network
Established a champions network across the organisation to:
Act as an extension of the programme team.
Provide localised support and advocacy for the changes.
Offer feedback from employees to inform programme adjustments.
3. Strategic Communication
Shifted the tone of communications to acknowledge the complexity of the change and manage expectations.
Focused messaging on the long-term vision and tangible benefits employees could expect upon programme completion.
Ensured transparency about challenges and highlighted progress to build trust and engagement.
4. Support and Training
Provided targeted training sessions to help employees navigate the dual-system period effectively.
Offered ongoing support resources, including self-help guides and dedicated helplines.
Results
Successful Transition to Microsoft 365:
Employees adapted to working in both systems during the transitional period, minimising disruptions.
The migration was completed on schedule with minimal operational downtime.
Enhanced Employee Engagement:
Transparent communication and a realistic focus on benefits helped build trust and acceptance among employees.
The champions network played a critical role in driving engagement and resolving issues locally.
Informed Change Management:
Regular updates to the Change Impact Assessment ensured the strategy remained responsive to emerging challenges and opportunities.
Clear End-State Vision:
Employees were motivated by a compelling vision of the future state, which emphasised improved collaboration and productivity.
Key Takeaways
This case study highlights the importance of:
Dynamic Change Management: Regularly updating strategies based on real-time insights ensures relevance and effectiveness.
Localised Support Networks: Champions networks empower employees and improve program reach and impact.
Transparent and Visionary Communication: Acknowledging challenges while focusing on long-term benefits builds trust and engagement.
By aligning strategy with employee needs and maintaining flexibility, the global car manufacturer successfully navigated a complex cloud-to-cloud migration, setting the stage for future technological advancements and operational excellence.