Our solution

After weeks of scoping and background migration work, Stem Systems moved Laydex’s Dublin systems to Azure Virtual Desktop. The Microsoft 365 tenancy and smaller Azure environment for Belfast was migrated simultaneously. SQL databases and large file shares were synced from on-premise to Azure; key staff were granted access to the SAP Business One system weeks in advance for acceptance testing. Customers and external software vendors were co-ordinated regarding switchover testing and dates.

• All devices dis-joined from the dependency on local servers and transferred to cloud-based logins via Microsoft Entra ID and InTune

• Removal of all physical servers, SAN’s (storage appliances) and phone system controller.

• A new cloud-managed network switch stack allowed IT, guest and phone networks to co-exist on VLAN’s instead of being supported by separate providers.

• All users were logged in and productive on changeover morning with appropriate 2-factor protection already enrolled, devices secured and cloud accounts locked down by Microsoft 365 Conditional Access.

• SOC (Security Operations Centre) service provides 24/7 monitoring of Azure servers, user devices and Microsoft 365 accounts for patterns of malicious activity, backed by human-led response.

• Phone system ported seamlessly, with users able to sign into their deskphone and new mobile apps with their Microsoft 365 credentials.

Outcome

• A standard Windows 11 hosted desktop grants the same user experience and app performance whether in office or working across Europe.
• Growth concerns solved – additional storage instantly available via Azure Files with no restarts, moves or other planning. New Azure server capacity able to be spun up automatically on demand according to number of logged in users.
• All devices forcibly encrypted, with latest apps and updates forcibly deployed by cloud policies – no need for PC’s to be in the office to be centrally managed.
• Significantly lower support footprint – no VPN’s, longer lasting client hardware, reduced electricity consumption, plus removal of server hardware maintenance/warranties have all greatly simplified the IT estate.
• Belfast’s legacy ERP system able to be ‘parked’ in Azure at almost no cost, with low spec virtual machines accessible for a short time every few months for auditing/retrieval purposes.

This is an example of how a customer’s IT can be converted from a break-fix relationship into a true ‘managed service.’ Through Stem Systems, Laydex now have a single point of contact for a multitude of now-integrated technology services and a seamless support experience.