Microsoft to change OneDrive policies for unlicensed users

Microsoft is set to introduce changes to storage policies that will affect unlicensed OneDrive accounts from January 2025, prompting organisations to reconsider how they manage digital information stored on the platform.

The forthcoming changes will mean IT administrators and users will lose access to archived unlicensed accounts. Additionally, unlicensed accounts linked to active users will be deleted, creating potential challenges for organisations reliant on OneDrive for storing important information.

One of the options for organisations is to purchase additional OneDrive licenses, though this can prove costly. Alternatively, transitioning data to a secure and accessible environment is seen as an option, albeit a potentially time-consuming one.

iWorkplace OneDrive Manager, developed by Information Leadership, is being positioned as a solution for organisations dealing with digital clutter and information risks. The tool aims to transform how organisations manage OneDrive content across active, inactive, and unlicensed accounts, facilitating a transition to structured environments such as Teams and Workspaces while ensuring information remains secure and accessible.

OneDrive Manager is designed for large-scale OneDrive use, offering both a global perspective and the ability for localised action. This dual functionality aids organisations in uncovering hidden information silos, allowing them to move content into protected and accessible digital workplaces.

The tool offers comprehensive features to address information silos, enabling organisations to compare files created in OneDrive and SharePoint. "This feature is crucial for maintaining a clean and efficient digital environment," said Charlotte Porter, Creative Specialist at Information Leadership.

Recognising the rapid expansion of OneDrive usage, the iWorkplace OneDrive Manager provides tools for active monitoring. This proactive measure helps organisations manage risks meaningfully, keeping their digital workspaces organised and under control.

Accompanying these tools is a robust change management framework that includes a detailed playbook and dedicated support from trained consultants. The framework is designed to guide organisations through best practice implementation from the planning stages through to communication, training, and rollout, supporting a smooth transition and ensuring long-lasting results.

"Our focus is on making work better," added Porter. "The solution's active monitoring and change management features ensure that organisations can maintain a clean, efficient, and secure digital environment."