Preparing a Workforce for Modern Collaboration

Enabling a Smooth Transition to Microsoft Teams

As part of a broader communications and technology transformation, Waipā District Council introduced Microsoft Teams to replace its legacy telephony environment and support more connected ways of working. With approximately 350 employees across multiple locations and increasing reliance on remote collaboration, successful adoption would be critical to the project’s success. Rather than focusing solely on technical deployment, the Council wanted to ensure employees understood the change, felt confident using the platform, and were equipped to work effectively from day one.

Creating Readiness Before Go-Live

Kambium worked alongside the Council to design and deliver an adoption and change programme that combined communications, training, and ongoing support. The approach focused on helping employees understand the value of Microsoft Teams, prepare for new ways of working, and build confidence before the platform was rolled out across the organisation.

To support adoption across the organisation, Kambium delivered a structured programme designed to meet the needs of different teams and user groups.

Change Communications

Targeted communications helped create awareness, build understanding,
and prepare employees for the transition to Microsoft Teams.

Teams Champions

A network of champions was established across business units
to provide local support, encourage adoption, and promote best practice.

Training & Enablement

Interactive virtual training sessions equipped employees with the skills
needed to communicate, collaborate, and manage information effectively within Teams.

Information Management

Training was tailored to align with the Council’s
information management policies and document sharing requirements.

Go-Live Support

Dedicated support resources and virtual drop-in sessions
ensured employees could quickly access assistance and
build confidence during the transition.

Outcomes Beyond Deployment

The project delivered more than a successful technology rollout. Employees entered go-live with a clear understanding of the new platform, access to support networks, and the confidence to adopt new ways of working. The combination of communications, training, and change support helped minimise disruption and accelerate adoption across the organisation.

“Waipa District Council worked with Kambium in August 2020 to implement Microsoft Teams across the organisation. The team was meticulously organised from the moment we engaged with them. Extra time was provided to produce training materials and updates for our staff. The team were also flexible with travel arrangements and roll out timeframes when we had to move up and down COVID-19 alert levels. Overall, Kambium were very easy to work with, listened and understood any queries or concerns, and provided prompt responses to any issues. We are very happy with the roll out process of Teams and the service provided.”

Charlotte FitzPatrick

Communications and Engagement Manager

Key Outcomes

Smooth organisation-wide Microsoft Teams rollout.
Improved workforce readiness before deployment.
Increased confidence in virtual collaboration tools.
Strong engagement through a network of Teams Champions.
Consistent communications and support throughout the change journey.
Positive early adoption and employee feedback.

Looking Ahead

By investing in adoption and workforce readiness alongside technology deployment, Waipā District Council established a strong foundation for collaboration across the organisation. Employees were equipped with the skills, knowledge, and support needed to embrace Microsoft Teams and realise the long-term benefits of modern communication and collaboration.