Achieving Success Through Collaboration

A Journey with a Local Authority Client in Devon

At INTEGY, we believe that true success lies in collaboration and knowledge sharing with our clients. Recently, I had the opportunity to work closely with a local authority client on an Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) proof of concept. While the journey had its challenges, our collaborative approach, combined with the expertise of the local IT leads, led to remarkable achievements. This blog highlights the importance of working hand in hand with clients to achieve a common goal and deliver exceptional results.

Phase 1: Building a Strong Foundation with an Azure Landing Zone

To lay the groundwork for the AVD implementation, we first delivered a partial Azure Landing Zone. This essential step ensured robust connectivity between Azure and on-premises resources. By collaborating closely with the local IT team, we addressed any connectivity issues and established a solid foundation for the upcoming AVD deployment.

Phase 2: Empowering Productivity with Azure Virtual Desktop

The second phase focused on delivering the AVD solution, encompassing several crucial elements. Working side by side with the local authority client, we accomplished the following:

Azure Ad Joined Base Image: Leveraging Azure Image Builder, we created a customized base image that met the client's specific requirements.

Multi-Session OS: By implementing a multi-session operating system, we optimized resource utilization and improved user experience.

FSLogix for Profile Management: We integrated FSLogix to efficiently manage user profiles, ensuring seamless access to personalized desktop and application settings.

Intune Integration: Intune integration enabled streamlined device management, ensuring security and compliance across the AVD environment.

On-Premises Integration: We established mapped drives to on-premises shares, allowing users to access and collaborate on their familiar files seamlessly.

Productivity Tools and Optimizations: We configured OneDrive, Teams, and Office 365 Apps for Enterprise, empowering users with powerful productivity tools. Additionally, we implemented various optimizations to enhance performance and user satisfaction.

Overcoming Challenges and Going the Extra Mile

Throughout the implementation, we encountered a few challenges, such as legacy inherited permissions, MTU fragmentation, and thin client lockdown complexities. However, our collaborative approach and commitment to excellence enabled us to swiftly address these hurdles. By working closely with the local IT leads, we gained a deeper understanding of the client's environment, while they witnessed our dedication to providing exceptional solutions.

Reaching the Endpoint: Testing the Proof of Concept

As we emerged from the challenges, the AVD proof of concept was ready to be tested by real-life users. The primary objective of this testing phase is to evaluate the solution's viability in terms of performance, security, cost, and management. The local authority client is exploring AVD as a potential replacement for their existing non-persistent virtual desktop offering.

Conclusion: The Power of Collaboration

While time will reveal if AVD meets the client's specific requirements, the true measure of success lies in the collaborative journey we undertook together. By working closely with the local authority client, exchanging knowledge, and going the extra mile to overcome challenges, we built a strong partnership and delivered a remarkable solution. At INTEGY, we recognize the significance of collaboration in achieving exceptional outcomes, and we are proud to be a trusted partner for our clients.

If you're looking for a technology partner that values collaboration and strives for excellence, INTEGY is here to help you navigate your digital transformation journey. Contact us today to explore how we can work together to achieve your goals.

- Ryan Jewell, Co-Founder INTEGY

Call us today on 01392 796525 or Email us at ask@integy.co.uk

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