Mauritian industrial and services group makes huge leap towards digital transformation
Company Size
200-1,000
Region
- Africa
Product
- Microsoft Office 365
- Microsoft SharePoint Online
- Microsoft OneDrive for Business
- Microsoft Skype for Business
- Microsoft PowerApps
Tech Stack
- Cloud Computing
- Collaboration Tools
- Data Management Platforms
- Email Services
Implementation Scale
- Enterprise-wide Deployment
Impact Metrics
- Cost Savings
- Customer Satisfaction
- Digital Expertise
- Productivity Improvements
Technology Category
- Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) - Cloud Computing
- Platform as a Service (PaaS) - Connectivity Platforms
- Platform as a Service (PaaS) - Data Management Platforms
Applicable Industries
- Professional Service
Applicable Functions
- Business Operation
- Facility Management
Use Cases
- Remote Collaboration
Services
- Cloud Planning, Design & Implementation Services
- Software Design & Engineering Services
- System Integration
About The Customer
Taylor Smith Group, headquartered in Mauritius, is a highly diversified industrial and services conglomerate with roots dating back to 1865. The company operates 16 business units and has close ties with six associated companies. Its operations span various markets, including marine services, logistics, distribution, manufacturing, technology, and water research. As one of the most successful enterprises in Mauritius, Taylor Smith Group has a rich history and a strong presence in multiple sectors. The company is committed to increasing productivity and has embarked on a digital transformation journey to support its next phase of growth.
The Challenge
By 2014, Taylor Smith Group faced significant challenges due to outdated technology and obstacles to flexible working. Executives struggled with accessing information outside the office without using VPN, which was cumbersome. The company was also burdened with the costs of dedicated hardware for backup and archiving. The initial plan was to replace the in-house mail system, Lotus Domino, but deeper analysis revealed the need for a more comprehensive digital transformation. The goal was to create a dynamic working environment across the group without the long-term costs associated with maintaining expertise for a Domino upgrade.
The Solution
Taylor Smith Group decided to implement a company-wide common mail, communication, and collaboration framework based on Microsoft Office 365, combined with a shift to cloud services. This decision was driven by the need to improve internal operating efficiency and empower employees. The project was carefully scoped, with several top-tier enterprise IT vendor solutions evaluated. Microsoft Office 365 was chosen for its comprehensive functionality, including SharePoint, OneDrive for Business, and PowerApps. The pricing structure and the ability to move entirely to the cloud were also significant factors. The implementation was carried out with the help of local IT services experts and trusted Microsoft partner Cybernaptics. The transition to Office 365 has resulted in significant improvements, including increased mailbox size, mobile access to core data, and enhanced document storage security. The company is now exploring additional productivity tools like PowerApps to further enhance business operations.
Operational Impact
Quantitative Benefit
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