The University of Kent wanted to accelerate its digital transformation by introducing Microsoft Power Platform across the organisation. With more than 3,000 staff, hundreds of manual processes, and no in-house Power Platform expertise, the University needed specialist support to develop a scalable rollout strategy and establish strong governance.
Cognitive Group partnered with the University to identify the right Microsoft Power Platform expertise, helping build a Centre of Excellence (CoE) that enabled the successful rollout of Power Apps, Power Automate, Power BI and Power Virtual Agents.
Project Highlights
- 3,000+ staff supported
- Microsoft Power Platform Centre of Excellence established
- Four specialist candidates delivered within one week
- Solution Architect successfully appointed
- Microsoft Power Platform rollout strategy developed
The Challenge
The University of Kent had more than 3,000 staff and hundreds of manual processes that needed automation, alongside existing applications requiring further development to support the University's digital transformation.
The University's objectives were to:
- Maximise existing Microsoft licensing
- Enable both citizen and professional developers
- Roll out Microsoft Power Platform
- Support adoption of Power Apps, Power Automate, Power BI, and Power Virtual Agents
- Establish strong governance through a Power Platform Centre of Excellence (CoE)
Following the rollout of Microsoft 365 during the COVID-19 pandemic, Power Platform became the second phase of the University's transformation programme. However, with no in-house Power Platform expertise, the University needed a specialist to develop the strategy and lead the implementation.
Initially, several generalist IT recruitment agencies were unable to source candidates with the specialist Microsoft Power Platform expertise required, prompting the University to partner with Cognitive Group.
Our Approach
Rather than simply filling a vacancy, Cognitive Group took a consultative approach.
Working closely with the University's implementation team, a Principal Consultant reviewed the project objectives, refined the technical requirements, and recommended appointing a Solution Architect instead of a Developer to provide both technical leadership and long-term strategic direction.
Within one week, Cognitive Group:
- Refined the project brief
- Identified four highly qualified Microsoft Power Platform specialists
- Arranged interviews with all shortlisted candidates
- Guided the hiring team throughout the selection process
- Helped appoint the candidate best suited to the University's technical and cultural requirements
The Outcome
The successful Solution Architect immediately began implementing the University's Power Platform Centre of Excellence, installing the CoE Starter Kit, configuring core modules, and establishing governance to support long-term adoption.
The project also delivered:
- A phased Microsoft Power Platform rollout strategy
- Improved governance and best practices
- Long-term milestones and adoption plans
- A comprehensive business appraisal to support future growth
By securing the right specialist expertise, the University was able to maximise the value of its Microsoft investment and build a sustainable foundation for ongoing digital transformation.
"Cognitive helped us articulate what we were looking for and assisted us throughout the whole process."
- Izzy Linthwaite, Project Manager
