How the cloud helped a small nation realise big ambitions

In December 2015, the Icelandic government kicked off a digital infrastructure review. With more than 100 different suppliers managed by over 100 IT managers in each public institution, the brief was clear; to simplify operations and streamline IT for over 20,000 users.

The solution:

Fast forward two and a half years, and a decision was made: Microsoft 365 was to be the common cloud platform for the entire public sector, the first time a country had teamed up with a single IT partner.

An intelligent solution, Microsoft 365 provides security built directly into the state’s IT solution, complies with GDPR legislation, and all employees get access to the latest collaboration solutions – perfect for enhancing creativity.

On top of the security, cooperation and productivity benefits, the agreement will create major savings to the Icelandic state and strengthened public services for the benefit of the Icelandic people. One single supplier releases both time, resources and new opportunities for the future.

The impact:

Bjarni Benediktsson, Minister of Finance, explains: “our licenses were spread over different institutions. So, we thought it would be a good idea to collect all these licences to a central spot. What we are always trying to do is give better public services. And for that we need productivity.” Read the full Iceland’s Microsoft 365 story.