Expert tips for implementing Intune

Implementing Intune is a significant project. Historically many Intune migrations have come unstuck due to complexity, leaving organisations in a hybrid state, or no better off than where they were when they set out (aside from a hefty hole in their budget and some serious questions to answer from leadership).  

When it comes to device management, striking a balance between operational goals, productivity, compliance, security and user experience can be difficult to achieve. Successfully implementing Intune and consistently staying on top of device management facilitates enables organisations to achieve that balance with ease.  

Industry experts David Ball, ICT Operations Manager at Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar School, Nick Marsham, IT Engineering Manager at John Holland and Matt Embling, Manager Workplace   Experience at MLC Life Insurance, shared their migration journeys and strategies for leveraging Microsoft Intune at a Workplace Ninja (Microsoft user group) event. 

Their tips for a successful Intune migration include: 

• Prepare and understand business needs 

• Consider user experience  

• Streamline device lifecycle management 

• Overcommunicate with end users 

• Supply learning resources and understand user modalities 

• Prepare and understand business needs  

Engaging with all business stakeholders from the outset is paramount. 

Transparent communication from the beginning helps stakeholders understand their requirements while allowing IT to understand and manage needs and expectations. 

Have discussions with all departments to comprehensively understand what the business needs. This includes questioning the necessity of certain software, versions, or configurations.  

Consider user experience   

The significance of the end user experience cannot be overstated. 

Employees just want to be able to rely on their devices and installed software. They don't want to be disrupted by device issues, software updates or security controls.  

Before migrating to Intune, consider how your end users work, what they need to work efficiently and what will help make the transition seamless. Be transparent. Prioritise preparation, effective communication and understanding user needs. 

Streamline device lifecycle management  

Intune can make managing a remote or hybrid workforce seamless. Enhance user experience, particularly for remote or dispersed teams, by leveraging Intune for device lifecycle management. This includes using Windows Autopilot (managed through Intune) for drop shipping machines and pre-provisioning.  

Automating device setup and pre-provisioning devices ensures end users have immediate access to required apps and settings, significantly reducing downtime during device onboarding. 

Users need not wait weeks for a device to be up and running or need to lodge multiple tickets to the helpdesk to get their device optimised. Their device is functional and set up soon after they first log in. 

Overcommunicate with end users 

Framing the transition as a beneficial change needs to be the first message. End users can be reluctant to change, particularly if software and technology changes have caused disruptions in the past.  

Open communication helps end-users understand what to expect during the Intune rollout, while advanced notice allows them to prepare for the migration.  

In other words, don't leave your end users in the dark.  

By addressing potential concerns through communication and learning resources, you can create a seamless transition experience for end users, minimising disruption and resistance. 

Supply learning resources and understand user modalities 

By offering a range of learning resources and training materials, you can empower users to familiarise themselves with the new environment. This can enhance user adoption and satisfaction. 

Understanding user modalities is important. Users often have varying levels of ability and preferences when it comes to technology. Some users may adapt quickly to changes, while others may require more guidance and support. By understanding the different capabilities and learning preferences, you can tailor training and information delivery as needed.  

Training resources and support options include: 

• Group workshops 

• One-on-one training sessions 

• Videos and online resources  

• Written guides  

Prepare for a successful Intune migration 

When embarking on your Intune project, it's crucial to understand the key factors that can make or break your journey towards effective device management and enhanced user experience.  

Learn more in our comprehensive article: Don't start your Intune project without considering these factors.