Digital Leap to a Cloud-First Workforce

We are proud to partner with PP Control & Automation, an award‑winning leader in strategic outsourcing solutions and a trusted partner to some of the world’s most successful machinery builders. With operations spanning the UK and global customer reach, PP C&A is one of the largest independent suppliers of control and automation solutions in Europe.

Over the years, we have developed an in-depth understanding of the business’s operational rhythms, engineering workflows and the critical role that technology plays in supporting their production capabilities. This became the foundation for a major cloud-centric modern workplace transformation.

Staying On-Prem Was No Longer an Option

Previously operating with a full on-premises IT environment inclusive of file servers, applications and backup infrastructure, PP Control & Automation acknowledged that it was becoming a growing source of friction.

Their dependence on ageing physical infrastructure was becoming a burden, requiring constant maintenance, consuming valuable space on site, and pushing operational overheads in the wrong direction. At the same time, the lack of flexibility was making it harder for them to adopt modern working practices or prepare for future automation. Every potential change felt complex, risky and resource‑intensive.

And with backup processes rooted in legacy systems, the business was carrying more risk than they were comfortable with.

It became clear that to continue growing at pace, they needed to break free from the limitations of their on‑prem setup and shift towards a more scalable, resilient and modern workplace environment.

A Modern Workplace Transformation

To support their goal to modernise technology, we worked with them to design a comprehensive Modern Workplace Transformation program. Due to the size of the project, the solution was delivered across four strategic workstreams, each addressing a distinct layer of the existing infrastructure:

1. File Transformation
   We migrated files from on-premises servers to cloud-based storage, paying particular attention to the requirements of engineering CAD data. Proof-of-Concept testing ensured controlled batch migrations with folder structures and permissions replicated to minimise disruption.
2. Application & Services Modernisation
   Given their reliance on specialist applications, we engaged with third-party vendors to assess cloud readiness and migration options. By repackaging applications through Microsoft Intune, deployment and updates could be handled centrally and automatically across all devices.
3. Microsoft 365 Backup & Recovery
   To address data concerns, AvePoint was implemented as a modern, purpose-built backup solution for Microsoft 365. A dedicated workshop confirmed licensing needs and ensured the system was configured for optimal protection and recovery.
4. Azure & Active Directory Decommission
   The final phase addressed the most significant infrastructure change. This involved retiring the entire on‑prem Active Directory environment. This required detailed dependency mapping and the conversion of all synchronised identities to cloud‑only accounts, all completed through close collaboration between both teams to ensure a seamless transition.

Eliminating Operational Complexity

Across the board, this project has delivered significant value.

PP C&A can now securely access files from anywhere, deploy and manage applications with ease, and operate with renewed confidence thanks to modern backup and recovery capabilities. Their security posture has strengthened, operational complexity has dropped significantly, and the ongoing costs and headaches associated with on‑prem infrastructure have been eliminated.

This project represents a major step forward for the customer, and we’re proud to have supported them in building a foundation that will enable future automation and digital transformation.