Migrating from Google Workspace to Microsoft 365
Migrating your business platform can be a lengthy project, and we know that moving from one system to another may feel complicated. Here at Dynamic Business Technologies, we want to make your move from Google Workspace to Microsoft 365 as simple and effective as possible.
That’s why we’ve put together our top insights, best practices, and practical tips in this guide. You can approach your organisation’s migration project with minimal stress, helping to transition effectively. We’re here to help you gain the powerful capabilities of Microsoft 365 with ease.
Google Workspace vs. Microsoft 365: Should I make the swap?
Both Google Workspace and Microsoft 365 are popular cloud suites designed to boost collaboration and productivity… and for good reason! They both achieve the goal of simplifying communication, but they offer distinct applications and management tools that set them apart.
So, why are many Australian SMBs thinking about moving to Microsoft 365? It often comes down to preferences and benefits that offer better long-term value:
1. Improved security and compliance
Microsoft 365 provides advanced security and compliance features, including integrated threat protection and data loss prevention, which are often better personalised for businesses in regulated industries. While both platforms are secure, Microsoft 365 provides a deeper, enterprise-grade toolkit that grows with your security needs.
2. Integration with Microsoft software
If your business uses Windows, Azure, or other Microsoft solutions, Microsoft 365 offers integrated software. This creates a unified, efficient ecosystem where tools like Teams, SharePoint, and Power BI work together seamlessly. This tight integration simplifies administration and boosts productivity for your entire team.
3. Familiarity and offline capability
One of the biggest wins is user familiarity. The vast majority of employees are already comfortable and proficient with Microsoft Office desktop applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Switching to Microsoft 365 lowers the learning curve and minimises workflow disruption. Plus, Microsoft 365 offers more reliable desktop applications that don’t solely rely on an internet connection. This gives your team the possibility to work even in offline environments and situations.
Which data do you need to transfer?
A key step in any successful migration is defining exactly what needs to move. A typical migration involves moving:
Email, contacts, and calendars: All your past messages, folders, and meeting invites are moved securely.
Files: Data stored in Google Drive (both My Drive and Shared Drives) is safely transferred to your new home in OneDrive for Business and SharePoint Online.
Other data: This includes shared mailboxes, Google Groups, and other team data.
Thankfully, working with a managed IT service provider such as Dynamic Business Technologies, we can map out the transition for you, ensuring your new Microsoft 365 environment is ready from day one, minimising the risk of data loss along the way.
Common Google to Microsoft 365 migration challenges
Migrating platforms offers exciting benefits, but it’s normal for the transition to come with a few challenges. Even experienced IT teams benefit from proactive strategies to navigate these hurdles smoothly. Here’s what you should keep in mind as you approach your migration project:
1. Skill gaps and tight deadlines
Migration requires a great grasp of both old and new systems. Without sufficient platform-specific knowledge, even small details may cause delays. Plus, these projects may have timelines. The solution is about precise planning. Creating a detailed migration roadmap with milestones can help your team test each phase while maintaining operational continuity.
2. End-User Adoption and Tool Confusion
Successfully moving to Microsoft 365 requires more than just deploying new tools; it requires your team to use them correctly. Running dual systems during the transition can lead to confusion about which tool to use, which can slow your team’s productivity. A well-designed training plan is key to structured change management. Focusing sessions on role-specific use cases (like Teams or SharePoint) helps boost familiarity and encourages smooth adoption.
3. Security and Data Integrity
Securing data throughout the migration process is the most important challenge to focus on, particularly when sensitive information is involved. Adopting a plan with protocols is one of the key steps to prevent data loss or unauthorised access during the transfer. Using a trusted migration solution with guided security and governance helps mitigate risk. Once migrated, regular audits ensure data integrity, so you don't encounter unexpected surprises later on.
Ready to make the switch?
Microsoft 365 migration projects are more in-depth than simple "lift and shift" actions, involving multiple moving parts and tight deadlines. Keeping everything on budget and on time can feel like a bit of a challenge.
At Dynamic Business Technologies, we remove that complexity. We manage seamless migrations, whether you’re moving from on-premise systems or another cloud service. Our process covers planning, secure business data transfer, deployment, and training, which are all specifically designed to minimise downtime and disruption for your team.
We’re here to simplify your transition and, more importantly, give you the tools to reap the benefits of Microsoft 365. Ready to begin? Start the conversation here and begin the migration process.