Dixons Retail to deploy Office 365 in move towards flexible working

Dixons Retail will deploy cloud-based Microsoft Office 365 software across its operation in the UK and Ireland, Czech Republic and Hong Kong, the owner of the retail chain, and others including PC World and Currys has announced.

The scheme, designed to improve collaboration and increase flexible working, will be rolled out by March 2013, following a pilot scheme scheduled in the run up to Christmas.

The deployment of Office 365 will see up to 20,000 employees gain access to Microsoft applications hosted in the cloud, including Exchange, SharePoint and Lync. Dixons see the move as a step towards a more mobile strategy the firm says will enable more effective communications and the provision of better customer service.

"The implementation of Office 365 will significantly improve the way we work together within the organisation. But more importantly, improve the way that we interact with our customers," said Matt Horwood, IT Director for Dixons Retail plc.

"As a company that provides consumers with cutting-edge technology and consumer electronics, it is crucial that we continue to be progressive in how we deliver service.

"Office 365 will not only increase the amount of time that our staff can spend on the shop floor, but also arm them with the right information to serve customers effectively," he continued.

"As well as the external-facing benefits, it will help us create more of a team ethos within the business and allow us to work even better together," Horwood added.

Office 365 is sold by Microsoft not only on its enhanced collaboration and social functions, but also its tablet friendliness. Surface, Microsoft's first venture into the tablet market was released in October to mixed reviews.