How does the program impact end users?
The roll-out plan for hardware and software will primarily include two scenarios:
- Issuance of a new device – these will come pre-loaded with Windows 10 and the new Modern Workplace productivity tools (Office Pro Plus, OneDrive, and Microsoft Teams)
- Upgrade of an existing device – eligible devices operating on Windows 7 will receive an upgrade to Windows 10. The upgrade will also include the new Modern Workplace productivity tools (Office Pro Plus, OneDrive, and Microsoft Teams)
As part of the program, the EOTSS standard-issue set up for employees will consist of a single device (laptop), docking station, monitor, keyboard, and mouse for employees who require an individually assigned computer. For computers deployed but not specifically assigned to individuals, the standard Desktop model may be used. Exceptions to the standard-issue devices may be requested through SCIOs and submitted to EOTSS for consideration. Final approval of device issuance is at the discretion of the Commonwealth CIO.
Additionally, the set up will include Microsoft Office Pro Plus, OneDrive for Business, and Teams – as well as other tools such as the Adobe product suite. Many users already received some iteration of these tools during the initial COVID response. We will now complete the rollout and allow for full functionality for all users.
What comes next?
Roll-out will take place over the next 12-18 months, beginning in August 2020. The Modern Workplace team will work with each secretariat to develop a customized schedule. Other upcoming planned changes will include:
- Continued migration of mailboxes to the cloud (Outlook Online) beginning in September 2020 – Moving mailboxes to the cloud will provide you with a larger mailbox to store messages and greater flexibility such as accessing email from the web (online).
- Microsoft Skype for Business (Skype) - will be discontinued in 2021 – Microsoft Teams can be leveraged for chat or to conduct meetings, instead of Skype, and will be the new enterprise standard. Advanced communications will be released as this date draws closer. There will be no impact to non-Microsoft tools, such as WebEx in FY21.
- Microsoft Teams – more information coming soon – Microsoft Teams is an all-in-one collaboration and communication solution, integrating chat (IM), online meetings, calling, file management and a project workspace into one interface. Policies and recommended best practices will be shared soon.
How do I keep up to date with the program?
We will continue to add updates and new content to this site as the program ramps up. Additionally, we will be launching a communications plan for all employees to keep them informed of progress and to provide updates on any specific workstreams in their Secretariats.
Lastly, EOTSS and the Microsoft Adoption & Change Management Team have engaged Secretariat Leadership and IT staff to implement an awareness and education campaign for all personnel. The primary goal of this campaign is to keep you informed of what will be coming (and when) and what actions are needed to prepare you for the new tools.
Be on the lookout for future emails from ModernWorkplaceProgram@mass.gov. Be sure to check the “Junk” and “Other” folders in your inbox.
A Guide to Working from Home
Additional Resources
| Date published: | July 17, 2020 |
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