As organisations navigate an increasingly complex digital landscape, the shift to Windows 11 is becoming far more than a technical refresh; it’s a strategic decision that shapes security, productivity, and long‑term business resilience.
In this edition Lucy Drinkwater, our Services and Solutions Director, shares her insights on why Windows 11 represents a meaningful step forward for modern businesses. From enhanced security and hybrid‑work optimisation to streamlined device management and tangible ROI, Lucy breaks down what leaders need to know, and why delaying the upgrade could hold organisations back.
01 — Strategic Vision & Business Impact
From a senior business leader's perspective, how does upgrading to Windows 11 align with broader business transformation goals, and what role does Windows 11 play in enabling operational efficiency and innovation across departments?
Let’s be honest: upgrading operating systems rarely tops the “exciting transformation” list. But Windows 11 isn’t just a facelift; it’s a foundational shift. It aligns beautifully with digital transformation goals by enabling smarter workflows, tighter security, and better cross‑departmental collaboration. Think of it as the quiet enabler behind the scenes — the backstage crew making sure the show runs smoothly while your teams innovate, automate, and scale.
"Windows 11 isn’t just a facelift; it’s a foundational shift."
How do you see Windows 11 supporting hybrid work models and employee productivity in the long term?
Windows 11 was practically born in a hybrid world. It’s optimised for flexibility: whether your team is in the office, at home, or somewhere in between pretending their cat isn’t walking across the keyboard. Features like Snap Layouts, virtual desktops, and deeper Teams integration mean people can work how they want, where they want, without sacrificing productivity or sanity.
02 — Security & Compliance
What are the key security enhancements in Windows 11 that businesses should be aware of, and how critical is it for businesses to stay ahead of evolving cybersecurity threats?
Windows 11 is like the MI6 of operating systems: sleek, secure, and always watching (in a good way). With hardware‑based security like TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and virtualisation‑based security (VBS), it’s built to withstand modern threats. Staying ahead of cyber risks isn’t optional anymore — it’s survival. Windows 11 helps you move from reactive firefighting to proactive resilience.
What risks do organisations face if they continue using unsupported or outdated operating systems like Windows 10 beyond its lifecycle?
Running Windows 10 past its expiry date is like driving a car with no MOT and hoping for the best. You’re exposed to vulnerabilities, compliance risks, and performance bottlenecks. Unsupported systems are a liability — operationally, financially, and reputationally.
- 58% drop in security incidents with Windows 11 Pro devices
- 3.1x reduction in firmware attacks
03 — Technology & Infrastructure
How does Windows 11 integrate with modern IT infrastructure and cloud services, and what are the performance and compatibility improvements that make it a better fit for today’s enterprise applications?
Windows 11 plays nicely with Azure, Intune, and Microsoft 365 — it’s like the popular kid in the cloud playground. It’s optimised for modern chipsets, faster boot times, and better memory management. Enterprise apps run smoother, updates are less disruptive, and compatibility is tighter. It’s not just future‑ready, it’s now‑ready.
Can you share any insights on how Windows 11 simplifies device management and deployment for IT teams?
Windows Autopilot, Intune, and cloud‑based provisioning make deployment feel less like a marathon and more like a relay: fast, efficient, and collaborative. IT teams can manage devices remotely, enforce policies, and roll out updates without needing to physically touch machines. It’s like giving your IT department a magic wand (minus the glitter).
Enterprise apps run smoother, updates are less disruptive, and compatibility is tighter. It’s not just future ready, it’s now ready.
04 — Cost & ROI
What are the long‑term cost implications of delaying the move to Windows 11, and how can businesses measure the ROI of upgrading, especially in terms of productivity and security?
Delaying the upgrade is a false economy. You’ll spend more on patching, firefighting, and workaround solutions than you would on a clean migration. ROI comes from reduced downtime, fewer security incidents, and happier, more productive employees. It’s not just about cost avoidance; it’s about value creation.
- 99.7% app compatibility, with programs in place to help resolve issues at no additional cost
- 250% of Copilot users said they were more productive
It’s not just about cost avoidance; it’s about value creation.
05 — Leadership & Change Management
What advice would you give to other business leaders who are hesitant about making the switch? What role does leadership play in driving digital adoption and overcoming resistance to change?
Change is uncomfortable, but so is stagnation. Leaders need to champion the “why” behind the upgrade, not just the “what.” It’s about framing Windows 11 as an enabler of better work, not just another IT project. Bring people on the journey, listen to concerns, and show them the upside. Leadership isn’t about pushing — it’s about pulling people forward.
What ways are Storm helping customers on their Windows 11 journey?
At Storm, we’re not just handing out Windows 11 like party favours and hoping for the best. We’ve developed a structured Windows 11 Assessment that guides organisations through readiness, compatibility, deployment strategy, and user adoption. It’s designed to take the guesswork out of the upgrade and give IT teams a clear roadmap — no crystal ball required.
Beyond the assessment, we’re supporting customers with tailored migration plans, licensing optimisation, training, and ongoing management. Whether it’s a full‑scale rollout or a phased approach, we’re making sure the journey is smooth, strategic, and aligned with business goals.
And yes — we’ll even help you deal with that one user who still misses Windows XP.
