How to successfully land Windows 11 at your organisation

In Autumn 2025, Windows 10 will be going end of support. Leaving many organisations choosing this year as the perfect time to migrate to Windows 11; the latest operating system from Microsoft.

With a range of new features and improvements, upgrading to Windows 11 can bring numerous benefits to your organisation. Including enhanced security, improved performance, and a more intuitive user interface.

However, to successfully implement Windows 11 and ensure your people feel confident using it, you need to bring them along on the journey.

In this blog post, we will look through some of the steps you can take to ensure a smooth transition to Windows 11. And make sure you land it effectively with staff.

1. Assess where you are today, including compatibility

Before you begin the upgrade and migration process, it is crucial to assess where you are today.

Look at how your people are currently working, and what tech they're using. Windows 11 comes with some very specific hardware requirements, so it’s essential to check that your existing devices are compatible, before planning your migration.

How compatible are the devices within your current estate? Do you need to upgrade tech? And what might staff need from future devices in order to thrive? Once you have a better understanding of your current state, you can begin to plan for the future.

2. Plan early - and back up your data

A successful upgrade to Windows 11 requires a certain level of planning. Start by creating a project plan that outlines the steps involved in the upgrade process, including timelines, resources, and responsibilities. Consider a pilot project and make sure you put some time into data preparation. Ensuring that all important data is backed up before starting the upgrade process.

By going through this data preparation work, your ensure employees avoid disruptions and maintain productivity during the upgrade. Data preparation also helps to minimise downtime, leading to a seamless transition.

3. Communicate early

Effective communication is crucial during the Windows 11 upgrade process.

By communicating early and at every stage of the migration, you build awareness, address concerns, and keep everyone informed. Answering that "what's in it for me?" question helps employees understand the personal benefits, such as enhanced productivity, better security, and new AI-enhanced features. Similarly, explaining the "why" and looking at the reasons for upgrading, will keep everyone informed on the need to stay current with technology.

You don't just have to use the channels you typically would, either. Emails and Teams messages are great - but what about doing something a little different? Use animated videos, sponsor videos, or even printed collateral to help land the message. This approach fosters trust, engagement, and a positive attitude towards the upgrade, ultimately leading to a successful implementation and better adoption.

4. Provide post-upgrade support

Providing post-upgrade support is essential for landing Windows 11 successfully. You don't just roll out something and allow people to get on with it. Instead, this support is there to help guide employees and allow them time to adapt to the new system. And, while the move from Windows 10 to 11 doesn't create a huge change, the training and support allows you to address any issues or questions that arise.

Offering training sessions, resources, and 1:1 support boosts digital skills and knowledge, giving your staff the knowledge they need to take full advantage of the new features and functionalities of Windows 11.

Landing Windows 11 Successfully - Final thoughts

By following the steps outlined in this blog, you can ensure a smooth transition to the new Windows 11 operating system, ensuring everyone can reap the benefits of enhanced security, improved performance, and a more intuitive user interface.

With a people-first approach, your organisation can get the most from Windows 11 and achieve greater productivity.