A repeatable onboarding process makes it easier to hire quickly. The aim is for the employee to receive an appropriate Windows device, access to Microsoft 365 and a clear route to IT support without several teams coordinating separate suppliers.
Match the laptop to the role
An office user working mainly in Microsoft 365 usually needs a different specification from an engineer, designer or developer. Standardising a small number of approved models makes ordering and support easier while still allowing higher-performance roles to get suitable hardware.
Prepare identity and device together
The user account, Microsoft 365 licence and laptop configuration should be treated as one onboarding task. This reduces the chance that a device arrives before the employee can actually use the systems they need.
Plan for temporary and fixed-term roles
Where a role is linked to a project or contract, choose a rental term that reflects the expected requirement. The business remains responsible for the equipment throughout the agreement, including when it is held by an employee or contractor.
Build offboarding into onboarding
Keep an asset record, know who has each laptop and have a process for return or reassignment. When a user leaves, company data and access should be handled before the device is prepared for another employee or returned.