Optimus advised that the best solution for the PKF team was to invest in Microsoft 365 for a more effective and safer cloud-based solution. This transition helped:

●      Remove PKF’s dependency on hardware equipment in their office

●      Move staff emails into the cloud for easier and more secure access

●      Move documents and data from an on-premises server to a SharePoint online

Optimus then helped the PKF team move old accounting applications that were held on servers to a Windows Virtual Desktop using Microsoft Azure. James Nation, COO for PKF Dunedin, describes the transition into the Microsoft package as “a seamless, all cloud based solution, which has given us the flexibility to go mobile and connect with multiple devices.”

Transitioning out of antiquated applications has been an ongoing process for the Dunedin team, as several long term clients still rely on historic systems. James says, “Optimus has helped us decommission services when necessary, and convert some of our clients into new platforms. Their support has made the whole process incredibly smooth.” 

New digital project management tools have helped PKF uncover a more granular view of their own processes. They have been able to identify time-wasting processes, and make strategic decisions about how to better support their staff on a daily basis, as well as over the long term.

THE RESULTS INCLUDE: • Uncovering crucial areas for upskilling staff • Collecting productivity data to find tasks that cause friction • Using technology to track growth and improvement

Now, their digital solutions make it easy to locate and access the tools and information needed on the job. The current IT system is more approachable for staff to learn and use – which has resulted in better accuracy and consistency.

The new system also benefits PKF’s clients in Dunedin. Storing information on a server added a significant risk, which Optimus helped identify and solve. Cloud-based solutions offer more secure data storage, and therefore better security for their clients.

“The solutions from Optimus have inspired so many valuable conversations about our own productivity and operations – helping our team become stronger and more efficient in several ways,” says James.