move all data from Office 365 to the new Office 365

Question

I am an administrator at the top MNC but now we merged with the other one. So, I need to move all data from Office 365 to the new Office 365 account. Can anyone suggest a reliable approach?

Brahma Prakash Shukla · Answer

migrating data from one Office 365 account to another, especially after a merger, is a common scenario. Here's a general approach to help you with the migration: 1. Assessment and Planning: Inventory Data: Identify and categorize the data you need to migrate, including emails, contacts, calendars, and documents. User Mapping: Ensure a clear understanding of how users from the old organization map to users in the new organization. 2. Choose Migration Methods: Email Migration: Use Migration Tools: Microsoft provides several migration tools like "Mailbox Replication Service (MRS)" for Exchange Online migrations. You can also consider third-party tools that may offer additional features. IMAP Migration: For migrating emails from non-Exchange systems, consider using the IMAP migration method. Document Migration: SharePoint Migration: Use SharePoint migration tools for document libraries and OneDrive content. Manual Migration: For smaller datasets, manual migration via drag-and-drop in the Office 365 web interface might be suitable. 3. Preparation Steps: Backup Data: Before starting the migration, ensure that you have a backup of critical data to avoid any accidental data loss. Notify Users: Inform users about the migration schedule, downtime (if any), and any necessary actions they need to take. 4. Execute the Migration: Email Migration: Follow the steps provided by Microsoft for the chosen migration method. Monitor the migration progress and address any errors or issues promptly. Document Migration: Use SharePoint migration tools or scripts to migrate documents and OneDrive content. Monitor and validate the migration progress. 5. Verification and Testing: Verify Data Integrity: After migration, perform checks to ensure that data is accurately transferred, especially for critical data like emails and documents. Testing: Conduct testing with a small group of users to identify any potential issues or challenges. 6. Post-Migration Tasks: Update DNS Records: If necessary, update DNS records to point to the new Office 365 environment. Reconfigure Clients: Users might need to reconfigure their email clients and mobile devices to connect to the new Office 365 environment. Training: Provide training and support to users for any new features or changes. 7. Communication: Communicate Progress: Keep users informed about the progress of the migration and provide support channels for addressing issues or concerns. Completion Announcement: Once the migration is successfully completed, send out a completion announcement to all stakeholders. 8. Monitor and Support: Post-Migration Support: Have a support plan in place for addressing any post-migration issues promptly. Monitoring: Continuously monitor the new Office 365 environment for performance and any issues that may arise. Note: Always refer to the latest documentation from Microsoft for the specific tools and methods applicable to your Office 365 environment. Additionally, consider engaging with Microsoft support or third-party migration specialists if you have complex requirements or encounter challenges during the migration process.