Foremost Print & Magnets – Windows 10 and Business Premium upgrade Project
Challenges
Foremost Magnets and Foremost Print were operating on legacy systems that were approaching end-of-life, particularly with the impending end of support for Windows 10. This posed significant risks around security, compliance, and operational continuity. Additionally, their existing infrastructure lacked the integrated security and productivity features needed to support a modern hybrid workforce. The businesses also faced fragmented IT tools and rising costs from multiple third-party solutions .
Solution
To address these challenges, a strategic decision was made to upgrade all systems to Windows 11 and migrate both companies to Microsoft 365 Business Premium. This solution offered a unified platform combining productivity tools, advanced security, and device management under a single subscription. The migration plan included cloud data transfer, firewall installation, and the decommissioning of outdated servers .
Implementation/Process
The implementation was carried out in a phased approach:
- Audit and Planning: An RMM audit was conducted to assess existing hardware and software environments. This helped identify machines suitable for upgrade and those requiring replacement.
- Infrastructure Preparation: SharePoint folder structures were created for both companies to facilitate data migration and ensure continuity across departments such as Sales, Finance, and Production.
- Onsite Setup and Migration: A full day of onsite work was scheduled to install Windows 11, configure Business Premium, and deploy a new firewall. Data migration to the cloud was executed for Foremost Magnets, with Print included in the planning scope.
- Post-Migration Support: Ongoing support was provided to address any discrepancies between home and office setups and to ensure smooth operation post-upgrade.
Results/Benefits
- Enhanced Security: The migration to Business Premium introduced advanced threat protection, conditional access, and endpoint management, significantly reducing the risk of cyber threats .
- Cost Efficiency: By consolidating multiple third-party tools into a single Microsoft solution, the businesses achieved substantial cost savings—estimated at over 50% compared to previous setups .
- Improved Productivity: Employees gained access to modern collaboration tools like Teams and OneDrive, enabling seamless remote work and file sharing.
- Future-Proofing: With Windows 11 and Microsoft 365 in place, both companies are now aligned with Microsoft’s long-term support roadmap, ensuring compliance and scalability.
Key Takeaways
- Proactive planning and phased execution are critical when upgrading core IT infrastructure.
- Consolidating tools under Microsoft 365 Business Premium not only enhances security but also delivers measurable cost savings.
- A hybrid deployment model—combining onsite setup with cloud migration—ensures minimal disruption to business operations.
- Continuous support and clear communication with stakeholders are essential for a successful transition.
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