In conversation with...
It was great chatting to Paul Barrs, an award-winning Windows and Imprivata Single Sign-On (SSO) project manager. Paul has delivered sizable and complex programs across both community and acute trusts over a ten year period. His portfolio of programs covers IT migrations, infrastructure application development, EUC workplace rollouts, data centre migrations, as well as the current hot topic - Windows 10 to Windows 11 upgrades - which is what we focus on during our conversation.
Paul explained that upgrading in a healthcare setting isn’t as simple as pressing “update.” Each department has its own needs and in critical areas such as Radiology, downtime just isn’t an option. For some departments, Paul explained, they can upgrade several machines at once. But in other areas, backup devices are essential so that staff can keep working while their primary systems are updated. Planning with software vendors is also crucial since long lead times are common. To keep the upgrade on track, the team has to schedule everything well in advance.
Managing downtime also takes careful coordination. Rather than showing up unannounced to collect PCs, Paul’s team makes sure to alert staff in advance. And in areas that simply can’t afford interruptions, they’ll bring in loan devices to keep things running smoothly.
We also discussed the security risks that come with Windows 10 reaching its End of Life (EOL). Once EOL arrives, Windows 10 will stop receiving updates, creating potential security vulnerabilities. NHS England will require trusts to justify using unsupported software, so it’s clear that upgrading, or finding ways to manage these risks, is essential.
Paul’s team often combines the Windows upgrades with Single Sign-On (SSO) implementation, allowing hospital staff to log in quickly and securely across different devices. This approach reduces the number of disruptions staff experience and lets them get on with their work.
Paul noted that logistics, like accessing restricted areas, can be just as challenging as the technical upgrades. Planning across multiple sites demands careful coordination and frequent communication to avoid delays. His insights really show just how much planning, communication, and teamwork are required to complete these upgrades smoothly, especially where downtime can directly impact patient care.
Watch here 👇
IT Works Health are a niche IT recruitment company, specialising in connecting NHS employers with digital healthcare professionals.
Book in a chat where we can:
- Discuss your tech goals for 2025.
- Understand how digital transformation project plans will affect your Trust.
- Listen and help shape your digital resource plans.
- Advise on any missed opportunities.
- Discuss available digital health skillsets in the market.
- Get to know ourselves and the range of services we offer.
