Why EchoStor Just Made a Smart Bet on Modern Workplace

Most organizations have accumulated workplace technology the way people accumulate kitchen gadgets—one tool at a time, rarely thinking about how they work together. The result is overlapping capabilities, security gaps, and licensing inefficiencies. 

That’s why EchoStor promoted Steve Caprio to Director of Modern Workplace—a move that reflects how quickly workplace technology is evolving and how central Microsoft has become to nearly every enterprise decision. 

Steve has his finger on the pulse of what our customers need when designing the modern workplace, leading a team focused on helping customers enhance security, simplify management, and unlock value across the Microsoft ecosystem. The practice centers on secure cloud transformation, identity and information governance, endpoint management, and collaboration—bridging strategy and execution. 

“The organizations that will thrive are those that can strategically deploy new capabilities, govern them effectively, and optimize their investments,” Caprio said. “That requires connecting strategy with execution—not just implementing products.”  

He brings over 15 years of Microsoft ecosystem experience, with deep expertise in Entra ID, Intune, Purview, and M365 migrations. He’s also the voice behind EchoStor’s Microsoft Minute series, breaking down Microsoft’s rapid innovation cycle into practical guidance for IT and security leaders. 

“Steve has an exceptional ability to cut through the noise and help customers understand exactly what matters,” said CEO Mike Johnson. “As customers face critical decisions around AI, automation, and licensing strategies, his expertise positions them to maximize their investments.” 

Why Have a Team Focused on Modern Workplace?  

The challenge with enabling the modern workplace is recognizing that Microsoft sits at the center of everything now—and that creates challenges. As organizations explore ways to harness AI, they’re discovering a fundamental reality: even if you’re not using Microsoft’s AI tools, any AI you adopt needs to read and consume data living in your Microsoft collaboration platforms. Unlocking that data securely—without creating governance gaps or security exposures—requires real expertise. Layered security stacks onto Microsoft’s cloud ecosystem. Digital workflows intersect with Microsoft’s service management capabilities. And it’s easy to get out over your skis on licensing when the next renewal is always coming. 

The challenge isn’t just Microsoft. It’s everything that touches Microsoft. The governance frameworks. The change management that determines whether a new tool gets adopted or just adds another line item. 

The 2026 Reality 

The pressure points are multiplying. AI adoption raises immediate questions about security and governance—especially when those tools need access to Microsoft data. Licensing models are getting more complex, not less. 

The smart move is understanding what you’re spending on Microsoft first—what it covers, what it doesn’t—then solving for the gaps. Cost optimization in the Microsoft ecosystem determines budget for everything else. 
 
Caprio’s promotion puts that expertise at the center of EchoStor’s growth strategy. Given the company’s trajectory—first Inc. 5000 appearance, CRN Triple Crown winner, consistent climbs on the Fast Growth 150—it’s a bet that’s already paying off.  

Contact

Phil LeClare

phil.leclare@echostor.com

617-899-8470