Client Overview

A construction and project management firm in Regina, Saskatchewan was growing rapidly and needed better collaboration tools, tighter integration with Microsoft Office applications, and stronger security controls.

The company had been using Google Workspace (Gmail, Drive, and Google Meet) for years but faced challenges integrating it with desktop applications, project documentation, and client communications.

They turned to Accelerate IT Services Inc (AITS) to plan and execute a full migration to Microsoft 365 (Exchange Online, OneDrive, Teams, and SharePoint) — with zero data loss and minimal downtime.

Challenges

The client’s environment presented several key challenges:

  • Over 50 active users across multiple departments
  • 500+ GB of shared files in Google Drive and Shared Drives
  • Complex folder permissions and ownerships
  • Need to migrate Google Calendar events, contacts, and email archives
  • Minimal tolerance for downtime during the workweek
  • Users unfamiliar with the Microsoft ecosystem

The project required a structured migration plan, seamless user experience, and clear communication throughout the process.

Our Approach

AITS developed and executed a four-phase migration plan ensuring data integrity, continuity, and user readiness.

Phase 1: Assessment and Planning

  • Conducted full audit of Google Workspace data (Gmail, Drive, Calendars, Groups)
  • Mapped Google accounts to Microsoft 365 user identities
  • Designed target architecture including Exchange Online mailboxes, OneDrive, and SharePoint site structure
  • Defined cutover schedule for minimal impact to business operations

Phase 2: Preparation and Setup

  • Provisioned Microsoft 365 tenant and assigned appropriate licenses
  • Configured DNS, SPF, DKIM, and DMARC for secure mail delivery
  • Deployed Azure AD and MFA policies for secure authentication
  • Set up migration tools (BitTitan MigrationWiz) and staged pre-sync of mail data

Phase 3: Data Migration

  • Executed mailbox, calendar, and contact migration for all users
  • Migrated Google Drive and Shared Drive data to OneDrive and SharePoint with original permissions preserved
  • Validated file integrity, access controls, and shared link functionality
  • Performed delta sync before cutover weekend to capture any last-minute changes

Phase 4: Cutover and Post-Migration Support

  • Switched MX records to Microsoft 365 over a weekend
  • Verified mail flow, calendar sync, and mobile device connectivity
  • Conducted staff training on Teams, OneDrive, and new collaboration workflows
  • Provided post-migration support for configuration, delegation, and password resets

Results

The migration was completed on time and with zero disruption to business operations.

Key Outcomes:

  • 100% data migration success (emails, calendars, and files)
  • Zero downtime — users continued working seamlessly Monday morning
  • Improved collaboration through Teams and SharePoint integration
  • Enhanced security with MFA and conditional access
  • Streamlined document management — no more version conflicts or lost files

Client Feedback

“AITS made our transition from Google Workspace to Microsoft 365 incredibly smooth. They handled everything — communication, migration, training — and we didn’t lose a single email or file. The whole experience was professional, fast, and stress-free.”

Key Takeaway

Migrating from Google Workspace to Microsoft 365 doesn’t have to be disruptive.
With AITS’s structured migration process, expert execution, and user-first approach, businesses can transition smoothly — gaining a unified, secure, and scalable collaboration environment built for productivity.