Strategic IT Realignment Through Microsoft Advisory Services

Information Technology is embedded in every aspect of this company’s growth as a global distiller. Seizing the opportunity to rationalize disparate IT systems SoftwareONE’s Microsoft Advisory Services were engaged for an extensive review. Using renewal of its Microsoft Enterprise Licensing Agreement as motivation, IT and application strategies were assessed and restructured. An optimized licensing model, and a new collaboration strategy for global IT delivery, have now created a secure information environment. Moving to a hybrid cloud licensing model has saved more than $45,000 annually, and provided full access to cloud resources, including Office 365 with enhanced security features.

This enterprise is a global distiller, distributor, and retailer of fine spirits. It is an American company employing more than 1,700 staff worldwide. The company represents a recognizable collection of distilling labels in the US and Europe.

With its Microsoft Enterprise Licensing Agreement (EA) up for renewal this company seized the opportunity to optimize its overall licensing environment. Company growth, including several acquisitions had multiplied disparate IT systems globally. EA provided motivation to consolidate software access while coordinating Microsoft licensing for primary applications across the organization. SoftwareONE had uncovered licensing gaps, and global diversity made it apparent that the entire organization should be reviewed. The examination looked beyond licensing to strategic positioning, including on-premises as well as cloud requirements.

Using SoftwareONE Microsoft Advisory Services (MAS) to guide the EA renewal, the client evaluated application options and available technologies that would improve their strategic positioning. It was a significant project involving stakeholders from across the company. With assistance from SoftwareONE experts, they conducted a review of the current local environments and evaluated what technologies made sense to let stand and where there was a case for global expansion and standardization. Security and brand protection were important decision criteria.

• SoftwareONE helped develop an optimized licensing model, a collaboration strategy for global IT delivery, and a secure environment for existing legacy information.
• New services and cloud offerings were added with advanced options to foster improved collaboration and performance across the organization.
• Advisory discussions highlighted options and benefits available through the new licensing model to effectively provide user community access to business-critical applications.
• Transitioning to a hybrid cloud licensing model introduced new capabilities and user efficiencies while saving more than $45,000 annually.
• Advanced security features were added for Office 365 SharePoint, and OneDrive.