Project

Navigating the Microsoft Ecosystem: A Foundation for RMB’s Digital Future

Project Performed by our Senior Partner and Head of Project Management Office – Richard Breytenbach – (Part of his portfolio). This project laid a critical foundation for the Banks digital future by strategically leveraging the Microsoft ecosystem. This initiative encompassed several key objectives, each executed with precision and a focus on minimizing disruption while maximizing long-term benefits.

Finalizing the Transition to Internet Explorer 11:

The project successfully concluded the organization-wide rollout of Microsoft Internet Explorer 11 to over 4,000 RMB desktops. This crucial step ensured a standardized and more secure web browsing environment across the entire enterprise. By completing this transition, we’ve established a consistent platform for accessing web-based applications and resources, enhancing compatibility and security protocols for all users.

Empowering Productivity and Collaboration with Microsoft Office 365:

Following the IE11 upgrade, the project team seamlessly deployed the Microsoft Office 365 desktop suite to all 4,000+ RMB desktops. This strategic implementation equipped our employees with the latest versions of essential productivity tools such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Beyond individual productivity gains, Office 365 fosters enhanced collaboration through features like OneDrive for Business and integrated communication tools, enabling teams to work together more effectively, regardless of location.

Strategic Migration to Microsoft Cloud Services:

A significant component of this project involved the complex migration of active employee mailboxes, alongside a substantial archive of over 60 terabytes of historical email data (previously residing on EAS and Message Solutions), to Microsoft’s robust cloud services. This migration was approached with meticulous planning and execution:

  • Successful Pilot Migration: A comprehensive 10% test migration, involving over 6 terabytes of data, was successfully completed. This critical phase allowed the team to thoroughly validate the migration process, identify potential challenges, and refine the strategy for the full-scale migration.
  • Comprehensive Migration Plan: Leveraging the insights gained from the test migration, a detailed plan for the full migration of the remaining mailboxes and archived data was developed and finalized. This plan addressed data integrity, security protocols, user communication, and minimal disruption to daily operations.

Adapting to the Microsoft Support Model:

Recognizing that the adoption of a new technology ecosystem requires adjustments in operational practices, the project also proactively facilitated organizational change. This involved working with personnel and technical teams to adapt existing technical practices to align with the new Microsoft support model. While in progress at the contract’s conclusion, this crucial element ensured a smooth transition and long-term sustainability of the Microsoft environment within RMB.

This multifaceted project represents a significant step forward in RMB’s technological evolution. By successfully implementing these key Microsoft solutions and strategically planning for the future, we are empowering our employees with modern tools, enhancing our security posture, and building a scalable infrastructure for continued growth and innovation. The dedication and expertise of our senior project manager were instrumental in achieving these milestones, setting a strong foundation for RMB’s digital future.

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