Migrating Users from Skype for Business to Microsoft Teams using Azure

Introduction:

Migrating users from Skype for Business to Microsoft Teams is a crucial task for organizations seeking to embrace a modern collaboration platform. This technical guide will provide step-by-step instructions and commands to assist you in successfully migrating your users from Skype for Business to Microsoft Teams using Azure. Assuming you have Active Directory set up and running, let's dive into the migration process.

Step 1: Prepare for migration

1. Ensure you have the necessary licenses and subscriptions for Microsoft Teams.
2. Verify that your Active Directory is synchronized with Azure Active Directory (Azure AD).
3. Communicate the migration plan to your users, providing training and documentation to familiarize them with Microsoft Teams.

Step 2: Enable Teams coexistence mode

1. Access the Microsoft Teams admin center.
2. Navigate to "Org-wide settings" and select "Teams upgrade."
3. Set the "Upgrade mode" to "Islands" or "Teams Only" to enable coexistence between Skype for Business and Teams.

Step 3: Plan your user migration strategy

1. Determine your migration strategy, whether it's a phased approach or migrating all users at once.
2. Identify user groups, departments, or regions for targeted migrations.
3. Consider conducting pilot migrations with a smaller group of users for testing purposes.

Step 4: Prepare user accounts in Azure AD

Assign the appropriate licenses to user accounts in Azure AD using the following PowerShell command:

Set-MsolUserLicense -UserPrincipalName user@example.com -AddLicenses "your_teams_license"

Enable Teams for users with the following PowerShell command:

Set-CsUser -Identity user@example.com -TeamsUpgradePolicyMode Islands

This command enables Teams coexistence mode for the specified user.

Step 5: Migrate user data

1. Choose a migration method based on your requirements, such as using the Teams Migration API, third-party migration tools, or manual migration.
2. For manual migration, guide users to export and import their contacts, chat history, and meeting schedules from Skype for Business to Teams. Provide them with the necessary documentation and support.

Step 6: Train and support users

1. Conduct training sessions or create self-paced learning resources to familiarize users with the features and functionality of Microsoft Teams.
2. Address user questions and concerns throughout the migration process.
3. Encourage users to explore Teams and provide ongoing support as they transition from Skype for Business.

Step 7: Monitor and optimize

1. Monitor user adoption and engagement with Teams using the analytics and reporting capabilities in Azure and Teams admin center.
2. Gather feedback from users and address any issues or additional training needs.
3. Continuously optimize your Teams deployment by refining policies and incorporating new features and updates.

Conclusion:

Migrating users from Skype for Business to Microsoft Teams using Azure requires careful planning and execution. By following these step-by-step instructions and using the provided commands, you can ensure a successful migration. Remember to communicate and support your users throughout the process, empowering them to embrace the modern collaboration capabilities of Microsoft Teams.