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Current initiatives & foundation projects

51ÉçÇøºÚÁÏis investing in building a strong M365 foundation to improve IT infrastructure and support future upgrades. These initiatives ensure SFU’s systems are secure and scalable, allowing the university to introduce new collaboration tools and services efficiently.

Identity & security 

51ÉçÇøºÚÁÏand Microsoft have strong security models of their own designed to protect data while ensuring secure, simple, and efficient access to essential services. 51ÉçÇøºÚÁÏIT is working to integrate these models so that the right people get access to the right tools at the right time while keeping data secure as it moves between 51ÉçÇøºÚÁÏand Microsoft environments.   

This initiative supports the theme, ‘Available Data’ by ensuring that access to M365 services is efficient, controlled, and safe against security threats. Key efforts include: 

• Aligning security and identity practices between 51ÉçÇøºÚÁÏand Microsoft.  
• Strengthening authentication and authorization processes to protect sensitive data.  

Cloud computing with Microsoft Azure 

As 51ÉçÇøºÚÁÏcontinues to move to the cloud, we need to ensure that our data stays secure, meets legal requirements, and is well-managed. Microsoft Azure has the capability to  provide a reliable, secure cloud computing platform tailored to our needs.  

This initiative supports the theme, ‘Available Data’ by ensuring that 51ÉçÇøºÚÁÏcan securely store, manage, and access data while meeting regulatory requirements. Key efforts include:

• Setting up Azure with the right security and governance controls.  
• Following compliance frameworks to meet legal and regulatory standards.  

Device management with Microsoft Intune 

SFU’s network supports a mix of university-owned and personal devices, which can pose security risks if not managed properly. Device management is a key part of the university’s security strategy to ensure all devices are secure, up-to-date and compliant with IT policies. Solutions such as Microsoft Intune enable us to protect the 51ÉçÇøºÚÁÏnetwork and data from unauthorized access  in case a device is lost or stolen.  

This initiative supports the theme, ‘Sustainable Operations’ by improving security and efficiency in managing university-owned and personal devices. Key efforts include: 

• Securing devices that connect to SFU’s network.  
• Simplifying access to 51ÉçÇøºÚÁÏapps, like pre-configured email setups.  
• Protecting 51ÉçÇøºÚÁÏdata on personal devices while keeping personal information separate.  

Teams Phone (Pending finalization) 

51ÉçÇøºÚÁÏis upgrading its phone system so that calls can be made and received through Microsoft Teams, eliminating the need for desk phones and enabling calling from anywhere. This transition will make communication more flexible, cost-effective, and integrated with SFU’s existing tools. 

This initiative supports the theme, ‘Usable Technology’ by integrating calling with SFU’s existing collaboration tools, improving accessibility and reducing hardware dependency. Key efforts include:

• Streamlining communication with a single platform for calls, chats, and meetings.
• Reducing costs and improving flexibility with cloud-based telephony.
• Supporting hybrid and remote work with seamless mobile and desktop integration.  

Completed Projects

Exchange Online Migration (2024)

51ÉçÇøºÚÁÏsuccessfully moved from on-premises Exchange to Exchange Online in 2024, modernizing SFU’s email system. 

This upgrade has:

• Improved email reliability and security with cloud-based protection.
• Integrated email and calendars with Teams and other Microsoft tools for seamless collaboration.
• Enabled access from any device, anywhere.

OneDrive

OneDrive was introduced alongside Microsoft Teams, offering a secure and convenient way to store, share, and collaborate on files.

This rollout:

• Provided a centralized cloud storage solution for 51ÉçÇøºÚÁÏusers.
• Improved file sharing and real-time collaboration.  

• Microsoft contract renewal (March 2025): 51ÉçÇøºÚÁÏis working with Microsoft to finalize its next licensing and service agreements. 
• Storage quota adjustments for OneDrive: Like other universities, 51ÉçÇøºÚÁÏwill need to adjust storage allocations to reflect Microsoft’s updated pricing model for higher education. More details will be shared once finalized. 
• Expanding M365 adoption and AI support: Future initiatives will focus on enhancing collaboration tools, improving governance and exploring AI-driven capabilities like Microsoft Copilot.

M365 at 51ÉçÇøºÚÁÏwill continue to evolve. Visit this page to stay informed about new tools, updates and training resources and make the most of your M365 experience.