Whether you’re a small business or a large enterprise, choosing the right productivity software and applications will have a big impact on your business’ performance and your employees’ productivity. But each business is unique, and the tools each requires will be different.
Does your business use Google Workspace (formerly G Suite), because you had a Gmail email account and that’s how you got started? Or do you use Microsoft 365 (formerly Office 365) because it’s the most popular, but are not sure whether it’s the right choice for your business?
If you’re already overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Setting up and managing Microsoft services can be complicated, especially if you’re considering an Office 365 Business Premium Australia-wide plan to streamline operations across multiple locations. In this blog, we explain the benefits of Microsoft 365 business plans and why they are worth the investment.
What is Microsoft 365 for business (formerly Office 365)?
Are you wondering what is Office 365 for business? Or how is it different from Microsoft 365? First off, let’s just state that there is no difference between Office 365 and Microsoft 365 (it’s just a rename).
Microsoft 365 is an office suite software that provides a complete productivity solution for individuals and businesses. Now a cloud-based subscription service, it makes file sharing easily accessible from anywhere as long as you have access to the Internet. Because of its widespread use and fine-tuning over the years, when it comes to using the tools and apps in Microsoft 365, there’s almost no learning curve required. New employees find it easy to adapt, and managers spend a lot less time on training.
With the Microsoft 365 office suite for businesses, you get productivity and collaboration apps and tools. The basic plan includes the following:
- Word (a word processor)
- Excel (a spreadsheet editor)
- PowerPoint (a presentation app)
- OneDrive and SharePoint (cloud-based file storage and sharing)
- Outlook (mailbox)
- Teams (voice and video call software)
- Exchange (calendar)
Microsoft 365 is a subscription-based model, which means you pay per user in your company. Transitioning from a one-off payment to a subscription service (billed monthly or yearly) means that you always get the latest version of Microsoft 365, with constant security updates. And by moving to the cloud, all your other Microsoft apps are synced.
What is the advantage of Office 365 for Business?
If you’re wondering why use Office 365 for business over another platform, you’re not alone. The right software decides how your staff works and collaborates. Microsoft 365 is used by over one million businesses globally for productivity and collaboration. The benefits of Office 365 lie in its ability to offer businesses world-class security, advanced Microsoft cloud services, device management and a seamless, connected experience for their employees.
6 Benefits of Microsoft 365 Business
Why use Office 365 for business? It is a good choice for small businesses and large enterprises alike. Here is why the team at MSP Blueshift recommends it:
1. Cost-effective and scalable pricing
Because of the subscription model, you can choose a licence and its cost based on the size of your organisation and the level of functionality you need. Microsoft has a lot of subscription plans available, so you can tailor each based on the needs of your small business or enterprise.
The predictable spend per month, per user, helps you budget your IT in advance. Plus, if you decide to pay annually instead of monthly, you benefit from a discounted price.
Is Microsoft 365 available for free?
No, but you can get a free trial on a business plan.
How much does it cost to get Microsoft 365 for business in Australia?
Microsoft 365 pricing for businesses depends on the plan you need. Office 365 small business essentials will cost less than an enterprise plan that needs more functions. Your IT services provider can provide you with an estimate.
2. Simple IT management
Microsoft 365 simplifies IT management by bringing all your business tools, data, and users under one centralised admin console. Once you set up Microsoft 365 or migrate to Microsoft 365, IT teams don’t have to spend time maintaining infrastructure. They can focus on strategy and deliverables. For small businesses without an internal IT department, Microsoft 365’s intuitive admin tools make it easy to stay in control.
3. World-class security and reliable backups
Microsoft 365 has advanced IT security features, such as built-in antivirus and spam filtering, automatic updates and two-factor authentication for users.
These days, businesses can’t have enough security, so knowing that your productivity and collaboration systems are highly protected is one of the top benefits of Microsoft 365 for businesses.
Data loss is one of the biggest risks for any business. But Microsoft 365 data backup with OneDrive automatically backs up and syncs your files. Even if a computer crashes, a laptop is stolen, or an employee accidentally deletes a file, your data remains safe and recoverable.
4. Improved collaboration and communication
Collaboration is at the heart of tools like Teams, SharePoint integration, and OneDrive. They make it easy for teams to communicate, share, and access their files anytime and anywhere (online and offline).
5. Business continuity and resilience
Automatic upgrades, privacy settings, the latest technology, and the support of mobile devices put Microsoft 365 at the forefront of increasing business continuity, agility and resilience. Plus, its compliance leadership is also something that businesses should applaud – and be happy to enjoy.
Especially important for business security is the data loss prevention (DLP) feature. Microsoft 365 stops an email from being sent if it contains sensitive data.
6. Expert technical support
Another overlooked benefit of Microsoft 365 is the availability of professional support. Microsoft provides global technical assistance 24/7, and trusted managed service providers (MSPs), like MSP Blueshift, offer hands-on help. Whether you need migration assistance, troubleshooting, or training, this partnership ensures your business always has expert guidance available.
Are there any drawbacks?
While the benefits of Microsoft 365 for business far outweigh the drawbacks, it’s important to note that it operates on a subscription model, which means ongoing monthly or annual costs. You’ll also need reliable internet access for full cloud functionality, though offline modes help mitigate this when connectivity is limited.
Get Microsoft 365 for your business
At MSP Blueshift, regardless of whether you’re an SME or a large enterprise, we help our clients choose the right technology for their business. Because of the versatility, security, software updates, overall robustness, and other Office 365 benefits, we wholeheartedly recommend it to small businesses and large enterprises alike.
If you’re considering switching to the Microsoft 365 plan for your business or enterprise, as a Microsoft partner, we can help you choose the right plan. Contact us today for a free consultation.
