The global spread of COVID-19 is now also having a major impact on the Netherlands. The consequences for Dutch society are increasing daily, and the unpredictability of developments is creating a lot of uncertainty. Below, we are providing as many answers to questions as possible to support everyone, including our customers and partners, to take on the unique challenges that we are facing.
For information on available digital collaboration technology, please scroll down.
Nederlands:
We bieden deze informatie hier aan in het Nederlands.
(Link to this information in Dutch)
FAQ
Q: Does Microsoft have a crisis and emergency plan?
A: Microsoft has a global approach to all threats for business continuity and crisis management planning. This also includes an emergency plan for pandemics. Our emergency plans are deployed all over the world. In addition to support funds, we provide products, services and solutions to better equip frontline hospitals and healthcare providers in affected areas. Our teams continuously work together to make the power of our technology and platforms available to affected people and organizations.
Q: What has Microsoft done in China?
A: Read more about how Microsoft has worked in the Greater China region so far.
Q: What guidelines is Microsoft following in the Netherlands?
A: We take the safety and well-being of our employees, customers and partners very seriously. Microsoft Netherlands adheres to all relevant guidelines of the RIVM (National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, site in English) and will keep evaluating the situation continuously. Additional measures will be in line with our business continuity plan and any future government guidelines.
Q: What arrangements have been made for Microsoft employees?
A: We have a global health team committed to the day-to-day protection of our employees. This is done based on the risk assessment of global and local health authorities and specific circumstances. We have further refined our existing business continuity plans and those of our customers and partners to minimize disruption to our operations. This includes flexible work arrangements for our employees, a comprehensive business continuity and emergency program, and a global support organization with 24/7 availability.
Q: How has Microsoft Netherlands further developed the guidelines?
A: Microsoft Netherlands has decided not to work at the Schiphol office for the time being, but to continue working via online tools such as Teams. We believe that it allows us to make a maximum contribution to reduce the chances of the Corona-virus further spreading while continuing our business. For example, together with our customers and partners, we will convert physical meetings into online meetings and collaboration in Teams.
Q: How does Microsoft facilitate working remotely?
A: We are currently getting a lot of questions related to working remotely and distance learning. At Microsoft, our mission is to empower every person and organization on the planet to achieve more. Microsoft Netherlands sees it as its social responsibility to contribute to supporting communication within education, healthcare and at companies and institutions. Microsoft Teams is a solution to work together digitally. In addition to generic applications such as online meetings, chatting and calling, organizations can use Microsoft Teams for a number additional of purposes, including:
Q: How can I start with Teams?
A: Teams is part of Microsoft Office 365. We are committed to providing everyone full access to make the best use of Teams. That is why we make Microsoft Teams is now available for free for six months for organizations that have not yet purchased it. You can read more in this blog. We are also planning webinars on Teams adoption during which we will share best practices and answer questions in order for everyone to be able to use Teams optimally. This link provides further explanation for IT administrators, training materials and help for users: Getting started with Microsoft Teams
Q: Where can I find information about distance learning?
A: Parents or teachers who want information about distance learning can read this blog. Below is the information (in Dutch) from our partners:
– Primary education: https://www.apsitdiensten.nl/info/lesgave-en-samenwerken-op-tijd
– Secondary education (SLB services): https://www.slbdiensten.nl/slb/nieuws/licentienieuws/samenwerken-en-lesgave-op-afstand-vijf-tips
If more help is required: we are also organizing a number of online sessions to help.
General statement
We take the safety and well-being of our employees, customers and partners very seriously. Microsoft Netherlands adheres to all relevant guidelines of the RIVM and will keep evaluating the situation continuously. Additional measures will be in line with our business continuity plan and any future government guidelines.
For the time being, Microsoft Netherlands has decided not to work and meet at the Schiphol office, but to continue working via online tools such as Teams. We believe that it allows us to make a maximum contribution to reduce the further spread of the Corona virus while continuing our business.
At Microsoft, as part of our business, we try to create an open and inclusive environment. That is why we recommend digital options for customers and partners. Ask your relevant Microsoft contact whether your original meeting is still scheduled, and a digital invitation will follow.
We thank you for your cooperation and hope to be able to continue to support you in the unique situation we are jointly facing.
Here, the Dutch government publishes the most recent information for the public about the situation surrounding the Coronavirus (Covid-19) in English.
