Your home drive is the folder in your file explorer only you have access to. It is typically referred to as a 'H' or 'G' drive and uses your payroll number as the folder name (e.g: 71123456$).
Everyone has access to OneDrive currently through your online Microsoft 365 account, but to make it more accessible and easier to use, the OneDrive app is now remotely installed on all devices and will appear in your File Explorer as a storage location.
Access to home drives will be gradually removed, with the entire council being moved over by the end of 2025.
You'll receive notifications and reminders via email about when you can expect your home drive to be removed, and helpful hints and tips on what you will need to do to prepare for this.
What does this mean for you?
OneDrive gives you capabilities that our current file storage does not offer, like being able to access your files on other devices, and the ability to collaborate on documents with your work colleagues.
The OneDrive application runs in the background of your device, so you will barely notice the difference, except for a slightly different file location.
OneDrive has been configured to make it as easy as possible for you to move over, that means no manual install or lengthy set-up. All you need to do is review what you currently store in your Home Drive, remove any outdated or personal files, and relocate work-related files to OneDrive where more appropriate storage locations are not available (such as EDRM, Mosaic, etc).
Things to remember
Remember:
- If you have old files that are no longer in use, multiple document versions, or maybe you have non-work-related files, do not move these to OneDrive.
- Consider whether you have any business-critical files that others may need access to, files that may be required for Subject Access Requests or Freedom of Information requests, or maybe you have completed documents that should be stored in an alternative location, such as EDRM or Mosaic, these should be moved now.
Where you can go for support
There are step-by-step guides available on the Learning Centre. You will find everything you need, from what OneDrive is, how to use it, and how to move your files, to information about when your home drive will be removed.
You will also find a list of online workshops, hosted by Digital Adoption that are running through the rest of the year, where you can sign-up to reinforce your OneDrive skills.
Some FAQs
Does this include any shared drives?
No, this only affects your home drive location. No shared drives are included in this change.
I have a colleague who will not be able to move their files in time as they are not currently at work, what will happen to their home drive?
Please have their line manager complete this HALO ticket.\