FAQ
Google Workspace migration questions, answered
The questions teams ask most before, during, and after a move to Google Workspace. Each answer is short and direct. For depth, the guides cover every topic in detail.
Timelines and downtime
How long does a Google Workspace migration take?
It depends on user count, data volume, and the source platform. Discovery produces a dated schedule before any data moves. Small teams on a single platform often cut over within days. Multi-domain or high-volume moves run in staged batches over several weeks.
Will we have downtime?
Near zero. Data is copied before cutover, mail routing switches at an agreed time, usually outside business hours, and a delta pass picks up anything that arrived during the switch.
What is a delta migration?
A delta migration is a second pass that copies only items created or changed since the first copy. It closes the gap between pre-staging and cutover so nothing is lost.
Can we migrate in batches instead of all at once?
Yes. Staged migration moves users in groups on Premium, which suits larger teams or organizations that need departments to switch on different dates.
Data and platforms
What gets migrated?
Email with full folder history, calendars, contacts, and files. Google Groups, Active Directory sync, and SAML are available on Premium.
What does not migrate automatically?
Mail rules, some third-party add-ins, and app-specific data such as Teams chats usually need manual steps or replacement. Discovery identifies these early so nothing surprises you at cutover.
Do we need to change our domain name?
No. You keep your existing domain. We verify it in Google Workspace and update DNS records, including MX, SPF, DKIM, and DMARC, at the planned time.
Can we keep using Outlook after moving to Google Workspace?
Yes. Google Workspace supports Outlook through Google Workspace Sync for Microsoft Outlook on Windows, though most teams switch to Gmail in the browser for full feature access.
Cost and licensing
Is there a free migration option?
Yes. The Free plan includes a self-service email migration tool plus admin and end-user training resources. It covers email only.
Why is migration pricing quote-based?
Two companies with 50 users can have very different data volumes, domains, and source systems. A quote based on discovery is more accurate than a flat rate.
Do licenses cost more through a partner?
No. You pay Google's list price. The partner relationship adds migration help, security reviews, and support.
What is the difference between annual and flexible pricing?
Annual plans commit to a year at a lower per-user rate. Flexible plans bill month to month at about 20 percent more and let you change seat counts any time.
Security and HIPAA
Can Google Workspace be HIPAA compliant?
Yes, when it is configured correctly. Google offers a Business Associate Agreement for covered services, and we set up the controls, sharing rules, and training that compliance depends on.
Does the BAA make us compliant by itself?
No. The BAA covers Google's responsibilities. Your organization is still responsible for configuration, access control, staff training, and how protected health information is handled.
Is Gmail HIPAA compliant?
Gmail can be used in a HIPAA compliant way when it is part of a Google Workspace account with an accepted BAA and correct configuration. Personal Gmail accounts are not covered.
Support
What does post-migration support cover?
Access issues, missing data checks, mobile and desktop setup, and how-to questions for the 14 days after cutover.
Do we need a Google Workspace admin on staff?
No. Many of our clients have no dedicated admin. We handle configuration and changes, and train someone internally for everyday tasks.
Where are you based?
Denver, Colorado. We deliver migrations remotely to teams across the United States.
Still have a question?
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