SharePoint Migration For Arboricultural Services Company

Windows File Server To SharePoint Migration

At the time, the organisation was relying on a legacy file server alongside a partially used Dropbox environment. This fragmented approach created inefficiencies and limited accessibility. By introducing SharePoint Online as a centralised platform, Akita enabled Down To Earth Trees to consolidate data, reduce costs, and replace outdated infrastructure with a future-ready solution.

A Structured, Consultative Migration Approach

The project began with a focused scoping session to assess the existing data landscape and define the optimal migration strategy. While Down To Earth Trees had an established structure, the transition presented a valuable opportunity to modernise and align with Microsoft best practices.

Working closely with Akita’s SharePoint consultants, the client developed a refined information architecture. This was reviewed, validated, and then implemented by Akita, ensuring it supported both operational efficiency and long-term scalability.

The final solution included:

• A Communication Site acting as a central hub and landing page
• A series of Microsoft 365 Team Sites, with and without Groups, tailored to different departments and functions
• Carefully configured permissions to enhance security and governance
• Branded environments to ensure consistency and user familiarity

Migration was scheduled strategically to minimise disruption. The process began at 19:00 on a Friday evening, with Akita completing the transition over the weekend. By Monday morning, users were fully operational on the new platform.

Driving Operational Efficiency and Field Collaboration

Post go-live, Akita provided hands-on support to ensure a smooth transition and rapid user adoption. The impact was immediate.

With a workforce heavily reliant on field operations, Down To Earth Trees benefited significantly from SharePoint’s cloud-based accessibility. Field teams could now:

• Access files in real time via 4G-enabled tablets
• Submit reports directly from site
• Retrieve job information instantly
• Collaborate seamlessly with office-based colleagues

Internally, the business eliminated data silos and introduced a far more streamlined way of working. The result is a cohesive digital environment that supports productivity, improves communication, and enables the organisation to scale with confidence.

This migration was not simply a technology upgrade; it was a strategic step towards a more connected, efficient, and agile business model.

Akita is an experienced SharePoint migration partner. Find out more about our capabilities in SharePoint