Unlocking business potential with Microsoft Modern Workplace

Table of contents

The role of Microsoft technology

Four key business requirements solved

Why modernise?

Getting started with Focus Group

Roadmap for SMEs

Conclusion

Modernising IT can feel like an impossible goal for many businesses. While integrating new technology takes research, and picking the right option is complicated, the value of modern tools can’t be understated. They can boost efficiency, open new ways of working, or better protect data against security threats.

To keep things simple, the Microsoft Modern Workplace tech stack is a collection of familiar tools that – when used together – provide a complete package for businesses. From security to collaboration and storage, everything is under one licence and designed to work perfectly together.

As one element of a modern workplace, alongside people and process transformation (which you can learn more about in our last month’s modern workplace blog), it sets businesses up with a better environment that allows processes and people to flourish.

What tools are there, and why do they matter?

The Microsoft Modern Workplace tech stack is centred around the popular Microsoft 365 suite, making it ideal for businesses suffering from a fear of over-complicating their tech stack or wasting money on unneeded systems. Add in the ever-popular Microsoft Teams, along with SharePoint, Intune, OneDrive, Azure Active Directory, and Microsoft Copilot, and you have the base for Microsoft Modern Workplace.

These elements are all designed to work flawlessly with each other, without the wastage of overlapping capabilities. And because everything is cloud-based and available on subscription, it gives businesses the highest degree of flexibility – making the move away from legacy systems financially sensible.

Four key business requirements – solved with Microsoft Modern Workplace

Collaboration with Microsoft Teams, SharePoint and OneNote

Microsoft Teams has established itself as the most widespread business collaboration tool on the market. Instant messaging, screen sharing, video calls, and document sharing all help to keep things moving. Coupled with real-time file updates and storage via Microsoft SharePoint, as well as simple note-taking, sharing and more on Microsoft OneNote, and your team’s collaboration takes a significant step forward with Microsoft Modern Workplace.

Security from Microsoft Defender for Business, Intune and Azure Active Directory

Microsoft Modern Workplace allows rules to be set centrally and rolled out to every device on your subscription. With mobile device management, secure sign-in, access controls, and more, you can set your network up how you see fit. And because it’s centrally controlled by Microsoft, your security should always be up to date.

Automation and AI from Power Automate and Microsoft Copilot

If you want to make the most of AI, but don’t know where to start, our recent blog can help. By integrating with Microsoft Power Automate and Microsoft Copilot, Microsoft Modern Workplace is designed to support the latest AI capabilities that can automate workflows, summarise meetings, and generate reports – with functionality set to get even better over time.

File and device management with Microsoft Intune, OneDrive and SharePoint

Microsoft OneDrive centralises and backs up all your files, so nothing is lost, and everything is accessible from any device with approval. Microsoft SharePoint adds the ability to work on files with colleagues and external partners, without needing to email files and track multiple versions. Microsoft Intune allows for the management of device fleets, including remote setup and monitoring.

Why should I modernise?

While it might feel easier to stick with the tools you know, outdated systems often cost more than they save. Businesses that delay modernisation face rising security risks, limited collaboration options, and a growing disconnect between tools and team needs. Falling behind can mean missed opportunities, frustrated teams, and higher costs in the long run.

The good news? With the right partner, modernising your workplace doesn’t have to be complex.

Getting started with Focus Group

If you’re struggling to adopt a modern workplace, you would benefit from working with an expert partner that knows how to help.

Focus Group has extensive experience and is a trusted partner of Microsoft, making us ideal for helping to implement the right solution for you.

We work closely with you to:

• Carry out a discovery audit of existing systems and needs 
• Migrate you to Microsoft 365 to unify and simplify your stack 
• Use our adoption services to train users and configure tools effectively 
• Explore Microsoft Copilot readiness
• Build in phases with clear goals and deadlines 

Why choose Focus Group?

• Experience seamless integration of communication tools for hybrid teams
• Enhance collaboration with real-time file sharing and co-editing
• Strengthen security and protect your digital assets
• Work with Microsoft-accredited experts

Getting started with Microsoft Modern Workplace for SMEs

Step 1 – Discover

Audit your existing tech stack and understand where gaps or inefficiencies lie.

Step 2 – Migrate

Move your core services (email, storage, collaboration) to Microsoft 365 with expert support.

Step 3 – Train

Equip your teams to confidently use tools like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, and OneDrive.

Step 4 – Secure

Roll out centralised device management and security tools like Defender and Intune.

Step 5 – Optimise with AI

Explore Microsoft Copilot and other automation tools once the foundation is in place.

Get in touch

If you want to see how you can benefit from custom builds of Microsoft Modern Workplace, get in touch with the Focus Group experts.