Cloud Migration
Anderson Equipment Company
**Challenge:** Anderson selected cloud computing architecture as the best choice to update their operations and improve network availability, remote access, and scalability. The leadership at Anderson recognized that transitioning to the cloud would resolve compliance issues and allow their skilled IT team to focus on more valuable tasks. However, there were concerns regarding Anderson’s lack of expertise for a successful migration.
**Solution:** Cloudforce initiated its process with an in-depth analysis of Anderson’s environment, exploring their workflows, system access protocols, existing protections, and past challenges. They then developed a multi-phase migration plan with essential timelines. First, Cloudforce ensured that all user identities were correctly registered in O365 and that licenses were compliant and current. They then opted for a hybrid migration approach, which involved syncing user accounts and groups from the on-premises Active Directory to the Azure-based Active Directory. Additionally, they established a hybrid connection between the on-premises Exchange server and Exchange Online. As a result, Anderson users could receive email services from both the local server and Exchange Online simultaneously, creating a unified email system. The IT staff responsible for administrative functions, such as password resets and user account management, could still perform these tasks from their previous location. With user identities synced to Azure AD, any changes made on-site would also be reflected in the Microsoft cloud, removing the need to redo administrative tasks in the cloud environment.
**Results:** Anderson’s cloud-based email system has transformed them into a more agile and forward-thinking organization, moving away from a reactive approach. They now enjoy the benefits of Microsoft’s cloud email services, including enhanced security, convenience, and cost savings from flexible licensing options.