Breaking new ground in CRE supply chain contracting: Microsoft's global integrator model

Abstract

Microsoft is in the first full year of a new operating model, called ‘the integrator’. The integrator model is a global solution — technology and external provider enabled — where Microsoft's in-house corporate real estate function (Real Estate and Facilities) leads a single ‘integrator’ provider that manages a stable of tier 1 service providers. The tier 1 companies provide facilities management, project management and brokerage services. The integrator provides programme management, data and technology management, lease administration, thought leadership and general support services. The system is held together through a comprehensive organisational and governance model supported by advanced technology solutions. The paper describes the decision made by Microsoft to adopt the integrator model, the journey taken to achieve this model and the outcomes experienced.