In mid-2020, NHSX, NHS Digital, and Microsoft announced a ground-breaking deal to provide the NHS with affordable access to Microsoft 365 cloud services. This initiative, known as N365, promised to save the NHS hundreds of millions while delivering tools to boost productivity, collaboration, and cybersecurity.
Fast forward to today: the excitement has settled, and NHS organisations are now faced with some critical questions about how to unlock the full potential of N365. With a deployment deadline of October 2021, finding the right path forward can feel overwhelming.
N365 offers a mix of products and services tailored for NHS needs. However, for those already familiar with Office 365 or Microsoft 365, N365 introduces a new layer of complexity. Navigating this landscape, especially with the constantly evolving features, can be daunting.
Let’s address some of the most common challenges and questions raised by NHS organisations:
At first glance, using the shared NHS tenant may seem like the obvious choice, especially if you use @nhs.net email and want to access the lowest pricing model.
But if your organisation has specific needs, the decision isn’t so simple. Consider the shared tenant’s limitations against your goals. For example, the shared tenant may not be the best fit if you:
For organisations with these priorities, running your own tenant or even using a dual-tenant approach may offer greater flexibility, despite the complexity.
N365 includes online versions of essential tools like Word and Excel, but switching from desktop to online apps isn’t a simple decision.
The online apps are tied to cloud-based storage like Teams and SharePoint, which can be challenging for organisations that rely on traditional file storage. Compatibility with clinical systems like SystmOne and differences in app functionality may also require tailoring your approach by role or department.
Carefully assess your organisation’s workflows and storage needs before committing to this change.
Mandatory in the shared N365 tenant, MFA and conditional access are key tools for enhancing cybersecurity. While these are powerful additions, their implementation raises some considerations:
If you aim to streamline security across all services, using your own tenant could simplify deployment and management.
Microsoft Endpoint Manager (InTune) is a cornerstone of Modern IT, offering simplified device management and reduced on-premises infrastructure costs.
However, there are challenges with using Intune in the shared tenant, such as relying on Accenture’s Service Request process rather than managing devices directly. Organisations seeking seamless, direct control over their devices may find this easier to achieve with their own tenant.
The N365 agreement provides powerful opportunities for NHS organisations, but deploying its full potential requires thoughtful planning. Beyond basic @nhs.net email services, organisations must navigate complex factors to ensure deployments deliver:
Need help deciding your next steps? Contact us for tailored advice and support to make the most of your N365 investment.