Now that Office 365 has launched, we’re preparing to start transitions in September 2011, and we’ve updated the Transition Guide and Transition FAQ to provide you more information about what to expect between now and September 2012.

Here’s a summary of the key actions you should take.

1)   Review the transition guide.

This comprehensive overview covers all aspects of the transition process. Download the transition guide for in-depth information on everything from system requirements to the specific steps required for administrators and current users.

2)   Learn the key changes.

Some of these system requirements may require you to upgrade your PCs before you transition. Make sure your business is ready for Office 365 and the new Microsoft Online Services by noting the following key changes:

• Outlook 2003 / Office 2003 is not supported
• Internet Explorer 6 is not supported
• Office Communicator 2007 R2 must be upgraded to Microsoft Lync
• Office 365 Desktop Setup is required (replaces the Sign-In Application)

Review all of the Office 365 and Microsoft Online Services system requirements. In addition, make sure all your desktops are up to date for the necessary end-user requirements. You can find this information in the transition checklist for administrators.

3)   Understand the Office 365 password policy

To make the transition to Office 365 as seamless as possible for your users, we will synchronize their current passwords with Office 365 whenever they change their password. This means that the new Office 365 password policy now applies to your existing subscription. Review the Office 365 password requirements to understand the changes.

4)   Download the transition checklist

Start your transition prerequisites - The tasks required to configure your desktop environment can be found in the detailed transition checklist for administrators.

5)   Check out your new subscription offer

The following table summarizes how Microsoft Online Services and BPOS subscriptions will map to the new Microsoft Online Services offerings after transition. All active subscriptions will be transitioned to the new offers while maintaining your current price through the end of your subscription term.  Learn more at the Office 365 website.

What happens next?

Microsoft will begin contacting customers and partners this summer with September and October 2011 transition dates. Each month, we'll send out more transition scheduling notices. For more information about scheduling, please check out the transition FAQ.

Processing timeframe

The transition schedule is designed to best accommodate all customers and their needs, and that could mean your transition won’t be scheduled for several months. Don’t worry if you don’t receive a transition date immediately.

Stay up to date

The transition center is the place to learn anything and everything about the transition process and all that Office 365 can do for your business.

Microsoft Online Services is ready to support you through a smooth transition to Office 365. If you have questions, contact our IT-level support, which is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Also, be sure to take a look at the transition forum – the answers you need are likely already available.