Modernising With Microsoft Surface & Teams Phone
Reed, the world’s largest family-owned recruitment firm based in the UK, is transforming the workplace by integrating digital solutions to enhance flexibility, agility, and overall employee satisfaction. With a mission to improve lives through work, Reed’s commitment is reflected in its choice of technology and innovative practices.
The company’s journey towards digital transformation was sparked by the need to move beyond traditional, desk-bound work environments. Simon Baddeley, Reed’s CIO, emphasised the necessity for change, leading to significant investments in digitalisation. This included upgrading to 4,000 new Microsoft Surface devices, revolutionising how their team works and interacts with technology.
The switch to Microsoft Surface devices has notably streamlined IT operations, reducing the time needed for new-starter onboarding from an hour to just 15 minutes. These devices, known for their power and integration with Microsoft’s suite of products, have made management and usage remarkably smoother, lightening the load on IT support with a 55% reduction in support tickets.
Moreover, the seamless integration with Microsoft 365 and Teams has boosted productivity and collaboration within Reed. Features like Planner, OneNote, and Teams recording have revolutionised daily operations, according to Mary Knock, Senior Executive Area Manager at Reed. The adoption of Microsoft Teams Phone has eliminated the need for physical desk phones, allowing staff the freedom to work from anywhere, which Simon Baddeley highlights as a significant shift towards virtual call centres and enhanced call management.
The impact on productivity and morale has been profound. Ian Nicholas, Global Managing Director at Reed, reports a 50% increase in productivity compared to 2019, alongside the highest morale levels in the company’s history. This success not only attracts but also retains top talent, crucial for Reed’s mission.
Looking forward, Reed views this as just the beginning of its digital transformation. The company plans to explore further innovations with Microsoft, particularly across business apps and the Power Platform. This partnership lays a solid foundation for Reed’s transition from traditional work models to a modern, digital-first approach.
Henry Lee reflects on the changing nature of workspaces, emphasising that the real place of work is now the device in front of you, serving as the gateway to the business. Reed’s transformation underscores the pivotal role of technology in reshaping how we work, offering a glimpse into the future of the digital workplace.
