The challenge: independent, but without IT expertise

Previously, Iris was part of a larger group. The entire IT environment was managed internally. After their corporatisation, it quickly became clear that IT management was outside their core business.

“We were as far along as before, but we wanted to keep evolving. The complexity of our organisation - in four countries - demanded a professional partner”, says Wim Mussche, Head of Operations Support & Strategy at Iris Industry Solutions.

Moreover, the company had to rethink everything: a new domain (irisindustry.be), new environments, new procedures, new systems and a new way of working for both workers and executives.

Why VanRoey?

Iris Industry deliberately chose one partner who full picture could unburden.

• IT + cybersecurity + hardware + cloud migration at one party
• Proven expertise in industrial environments
• Transparent cooperation & strong partnerships
• Complete unburdening so they can focus on their own speciality

“It is not cheap, but it is still cheaper than looking for people internally for all those domains. And more importantly, it saves us a huge amount of time and efficiency.”

The solution: complete cloud shift and modernisation

VanRoey guided Iris Industry Solutions in a thorough IT modernisation:

1. Migration to the cloud

We went for one central cloud environment for documents, collaboration and communication:

• All data and documents migrated to modern Microsoft 365 environment (SharePoint & OneDrive)
• End of physical storage and shredded files
• Better availability across four countries

[Want to know what licences and security features Microsoft 365 offers? See our overview of Microsoft 365 Business Premium and E3 features & licences.]

2. Complete renewal of hardware and infrastructure

• Full virtualisation of the server environment in Azure, making all critical systems secure, scalable and centrally managed
• All computers migrated to modern, secure cloud profiles
• Phased replacement of obsolete equipment
• Introduction of portals to easily download software and tools

3. New network infrastructure with Ruckus

VanRoey's network specialists also provided a completely new network infrastructure in all branches, equipped with Ruckus switches and access points, centrally managed via our Cloud Network Portal (CNP).

4. Professionalisation of security

• Fortinet FortiGate firewalls in each branch and in the Azure cloud environment
• Stronger security structure
• Clear processes and central management
• Greater peace of mind and security for both workers and managers

All branches are now interconnected via Fortinet SD-WAN for a secure and stable international connection. Endpoints are secured with SentinelOne for advanced detection & response (EDR).

5. New way of working together

The switch from Iris Group's IT department to VanRoey via ticketing was a big change: “It was hugely impactful because everything became different for our people. But it all went smoothly. You guys picked up and transferred everything: domain, accounts, environment... Thank you for that.”

The impact on staff: huge

According to Wim Mussche, the change was bigger than they could have estimated beforehand.

• New ERP implementation and IT separation at the same time
• New domain names, new logins, new tools
• Employees had to move from a familiar environment to a completely new structure

Nevertheless, the migration went remarkably smoothly: “Our people suddenly found themselves in a new environment, but the way you transferred everything was impressive. Of course there are still optimisations, but that's normal.”

The future? Further streamlining & integration

Iris Industry Solutions is already looking ahead to the next steps with VanRoey:

1. A user-friendly cloud for all

Workers also need to have easy access to the right information without complexity.

2. Integrations with AFAS

Create an e-mail address once → automatic access to all systems.
Single sign-on across all platforms.

3. Centralise telephony

No more separate fixed phones per office, but one modern and centrally managed telephony system.

4. Phased migrations in the event of future changes

The entire transition happened in one day. Instructive, but intense.
“Next time, we'll tackle that more in groups,” he said.”

Conclusion: A clear message for companies in transition

Above all, Iris Industry Solutions advises other companies to stay close to their own expertise. Managing IT internally sometimes seems cheaper, but ends up costing more time, money and energy than expected. By choosing one partner who can carry the entire IT landscape, you get stability, security and relief.

VanRoey works with proven technologies and strong partners, ensuring that every link is professionally managed. According to Iris, a modern, future-oriented cloud environment is indispensable: especially for organisations with multiple branches or complex structures.

Wondering how we can also unburden your organisation? Get in touch with us.