Session Abstract

When data is disconnected, experiences are fragmented, and workspaces overlap it’s no wonder many in IT are overwhelmed while AI amplifies the mess. Consolidation isn’t just cost-cutting; it’s how IT creates the conditions for faster and safer innovation. Drawing from current industry insights and the work of 100,000+ Microsoft IT professionals this session outlines a pragmatic “consolidation flywheel” that turns the mixed, messy and missing into a simpler, safer Microsoft 365 platform-ready to accelerate AI and Copilot success. Join Richard Harbridge, Microsoft MVP, to discuss legacy modernization, tenant consolidation, workspace (site/team) consolidation, and application rationalization all while maintaining momentum, aligning controls, and avoiding common pitfalls that slow teams down. Who should attend IT leaders, architects, and platform owners responsible for Microsoft 365 strategy, migrations, M&A integration, and AI enablement. Key takeaways • How tenant, content, and app consolidation accelerate Copilot value while decreasing risk. • Useful planning guides and checklists for Microsoft 365 consolidation and governance • Practical tactics to rationalize overlapping tools, drive buy-in and align policies with M365 controls. • When to consolidate vs. integrate: decision criteria, trade-offs, and success metrics.

Note to event organizers

This is a highly relevant and useful session based on other events I have done (well rated with average of 4.7/5). Migration is still a major focus for many customers, this way we can discuss it, best practices and practical takeaways while also talking about AI and Copilot and how the UI for AI, Copilot and Microsoft 365 are increasingly driving more consolidation (or when and where integration makes more sense).

Richard Harbridge

Richard Harbridge is an Ecosystem Collaboration & Alliances Lead, author, internationally recognized speaker, and a Microsoft MVP. With a wealth of experience, Richard has led and operated multiple thriving businesses and currently serves as a trusted advisor to hundreds of organizations. He specializes in helping businesses understand their current and future needs, guiding them to take strategic actions that drive growth and achieve their ambitious goals. Richard is known for his hands-on approach, having led, architected, and implemented countless business and technology solutions that have catalyzed digital and organizational transformations. His passion lies in empowering organizations to achieve more, whether through creating award winning experiences that enhance employee and technology strategies or by leveraging emerging technologies to improve the value they deliver to their customers, partners, and communities. As sought-after speaker and leader, Richard frequently shares his expertise on employee experience, AI, the digital workplace, technology adoption, and Microsoft technologies at industry events worldwide. Richard is proud to work at Workleap, makers of ShareGate and also contributes to several committees, research teams, leads CIO think tanks, and facilitates employee experience and technology groups.

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