For a business, the new Windows 10 operating system offers both a challenge and an opportunity. Its features promise the sort of security and ease of working that makes it desirable… but the prospect of moving hundreds, thousands or maybe more machines over can be daunting.
Yet the migration need not be such a problem. Here are ten things to consider about making the move that should serve to put your mind at rest…
Take stock
Migrating isn’t just about moving from one system to another. It’s about taking a look at your full software estate, analysing what works and what doesn’t, and only migrating the necessary elements. It can actually be a good opportunity to get your house in order and save money on unused licenses.
Right time
Timing is everything. It’s not best to migrate while you’re in the middle of a vital project or in the midst of the busiest time of year for your business. The business – not just the IT department – should be fully on board to make the move.
People not machines
As 1E points out, you are migrating people not machines. Make sure you keep that in mind and ensure staff are comfortable and, where necessary, receive training.
Machines not people
It’s now possible to automate much of the migration process. This removes the need for lengthy desk visits and takes much of the time and hassle out of the process.
Last OS
Windows 10 looks set to mark an important watershed moment. From this release onwards it seems unlikely that we will see another ‘Big Bang’. Businesses should aim to migrate so they’re ready to be a part of this new world or risk falling behind. Automated updates and upgrades also need to become part of the normal working practices of an organisation.
Tested
Microsoft has done all it can to ensure the new OS is ready for use, with more than five million Windows Insiders helping to test it and avoid teething problems so that an early migration is much less risky.
BYOD
Increasing numbers of people have chosen to take their own device to work in recent years. Windows 10 recognises this and offers a more natural way to operate in an era where a host of different devices are being used to complete your business tasks.
Compatible
As CIO.com points out, the move from XP to 7 was also made trickier by the fact that a big chunk of apps, devices and peripherals did not work on the new OS. That won’t be the case with 10, which has been designed to make the switch much simpler.
Secure
Aspects such as Device Guard, Secure Boot and the biometric element of Windows Hello makes migration important to obtain better levels of security for a business. Migration can, therefore, be part of the process of protecting your IT assets.
Keep Up
All businesses must strive to keep up with their rivals. Migration now can help a business to stay ahead of the game and benefit from the positives of the operating system – rather than having to rush and play catch up. Newer, speedier ways of migrating mean it’s easier than ever to get ahead of the queue.