The Organisation

Client: Department for International Development (DFID)

Industry: UK Government

Services: IT Infrastructure

DFID was a ministerial department from May 1997 to September 2020. It merged with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office to create FCDO.

The Department for International Development (DFID) employed around 3,600 staff who work in offices in London, East Kilbride and globally.



The Challenge

The Department for International Development (DFID) faced several challenges with their existing IT infrastructure:

1.     An outdated SCCM 2007 primary site that needed upgrading to the latest version

2.     The need for a secure Windows 10 build deployable across their estate

3.     Replacement of their current end-point security solution

4.     Implementation of a comprehensive patching solution for both Microsoft and non-Microsoft applications

5.     Ensuring compatibility of current applications with Windows 10 and 64-bit devices

6.     Maintaining usability of internal web applications on the new Windows 10 build

Additionally, DFID required knowledge transfer to their IT Operations staff to ensure ongoing management of the new solution.

The Solution

Altiatech proposed a comprehensive solution to address DFID's challenges:

1. Windows 10 Secure Build:

• Developed using Altiatech's Solution Accelerator based on the National Cyber Security Centre's EUD Security Guidance
• Implemented features like Direct Access, PKI, Software Centre, AppLocker, BitLocker, and more

2. SCCM Upgrade:

• Implementation of the latest SCCM version in parallel with the existing SCCM 2007
• Simplified hierarchy design with a single SCCM primary site and child secondaries
• Migration of existing packages, collections, and artefacts

3. End-Point Security Replacement:

• Recommendation to use Microsoft's Active Directory BitLocker to Go with MBAM for enhanced security

4. Patching Solution:

• Extension of SCCM 2016 to manage software updates for both Microsoft and non-Microsoft applications

5. Application Compatibility:

• Comprehensive assessment and remediation plan for existing applications
• Repackaging, re-platforming, upgrading, or replacing applications as needed

6. Web Application Compatibility:

• Assessment of internal websites for compatibility with Edge, IE11, and Chrome
• Implementation of pragmatic strategies to ensure usability
   
  

7. Knowledge Transfer:

• Initial training workshops on SCCM overview and core functionality
• Ongoing deep-dive sessions on OS Deployment, Software Deployment, and Software Update Management
• Flexible 1-on-1 training sessions via Skype for Business
  

The Results

The comprehensive solution offered by Altiatech delivered the following benefits:

1.     Enhanced security across DFID's IT estate with a Windows 10 build aligned with NCSC guidelines

2.     Improved management and control of the IT infrastructure through the latest SCCM version

3.     Streamlined patching process for both Microsoft and non-Microsoft applications

4.     Ensured compatibility of existing applications with the new Windows 10 environment

5.     Maintained functionality of internal web applications

6.     Increased knowledge and capability of DFID IT Operations staff

7.     Flexible pricing options to suit DFID's budgetary requirements

8.     Ongoing support and enhancements through a managed service plan

By implementing this tailored solution, the Department for International Development saw significant improvements in the efficiency, security, and manageability of their IT infrastructure, ultimately supporting their mission to tackle extreme poverty and deliver UK aid around the world.