Many schools within the California State University (CSU) System are beginning the transition from Google to Microsoft, working toward a complete transition by December. Currently Cal State Monterey Bay is “evaluating” a transition away from Google. This change would end a 17-year partnership.
“Information Technology is still in discussion with consultants to scope a transition project,” an email from the school’s communication department to the Lutrinae read. “We do not currently have a timeline for when the transition will happen or details on the cost of the transition.”
CSUMB can apparently opt out of the transition.
CSU East Bay (CSUEB) has had a similar situation with their proposed transition from Google Workspace to Microsoft Office. According to an article in The Pioneer, the school newspaper, (Cal State East Bay Switching From Google to Microsoft: Here’s What to Expect – The Pioneer) the information technology department “tried to start the transition earlier in the year, but got enough backlash from staff to postpone it,” said CSUEB faculty member Stacey Moultry. This transfer is still in its early stages at CSUMB, so there is not a clear plan for how or when the process will take place.
A CSUMB university spokesperson outlined some of the advantages of transitions, noting, “The majority of California State University campuses use the Microsoft Office suite and there can be benefits to campuses of aligning with the CSU because we have stronger purchasing power as well as support from the Chancellor’s Office or other campus IT departments in problem solving.”
When the time comes, transferring data can take place. Through Google Takeout, students and faculty have the opportunity to transfer files directly to OneDrive. The data that transfers is all used Google products, from email to documents, they can be transferred directly or through an email. To keep important work or data secure, it is advised to download it before starting the transfer process.
“IT will communicate with the campus when we have more information to share and when we have a clearer timeline for any transition to Microsoft Office,” according to the CSUMB’s communication department.