Microsoft 365 combines the best of Microsoft Office apps into one cloud-based solution that is the ultimate productivity suite, allowing you to work and access your files from anywhere. It runs on Microsoft’s servers, but desktop applications can be downloaded so you can work offline if you need to, and your documents sync when you reconnect to ensure everything is up to date.
All of Microsoft’s business packages are available for up to 300 users, making them ideal for small to medium-sized businesses. They are also subscription-based, so you only pay for the package that fits your business needs, ensuring a fixed monthly cost with maximum return on investment.
For businesses wanting to streamline their productivity and processes without breaking the bank, Microsoft offers several plans, but navigating these and finding the right one for your business can be a challenge, so we’ve put together an overview of the Microsoft 365 plans for business here.
Why use Microsoft 365 Business?
With the Office 365 apps integrated into the package, Microsoft 365 Business is an ideal holistic solution for businesses who need to efficiently manage operations, as well as communicate and collaborate from anywhere in the world in real-time. There is no need to install software applications or maintain costly hardware to maintain business continuity. As Microsoft 365 is web-based, you can access all the tools and applications you need wherever you are, no matter what device you are using.
Microsoft 365 Business Basic
This plan is best for organisations that need straightforward remote solutions, including Microsoft Teams, secure cloud storage, and Office apps online (desktop versions are not included).
- Web versions of Office apps (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint), and OneNote
- Host your email with a 50GB mailbox
- Business-class email anywhere with Exchange
- Create your own custom domain name for email
- Manage and share your calendar, share and schedule meeting times, and get reminders
- Plus SharePoint, Microsoft Teams,
- 1 TB cloud storage with OneDrive.
Microsoft 365 Business Standard
The Business Standard plan is robust, ideal for companies that want to power up their productivity, with full remote work and collaboration tools, secure cloud storage, business email, and Office applications across all devices.
- All the features of Business Basic, plus Yammer
- Web and desktop versions of Office apps
- 1 TB OneDrive cloud storage per user
- Limited use rights to Power Apps and Power Automate
- One licence covers Office apps on five devices per user (iOS and Android).
Microsoft 365 Business Premium
Microsoft 365 Business Premium combines powerful cloud services, comprehensive Office apps, and premium security features to help protect your business against cyber threats. This plan is ideal for organisations shifting to remote or hybrid work environments, or BYOD workplaces.
- Latest versions of Office apps
- 1 TB of cloud storage per user with OneDrive
- Powered up collaboration and communication with Outlook, Teams, and Exchange
- Control access to sensitive data with encryption tools to avoid sensitive information being shared
- Device management to apply security controls and features
- Defend against advanced cyber threats with advanced security features such as Azure AD Premium, Advanced Threat Protection, Azure Information Protection, and Intune.
Office Apps for Business
For businesses that may only want to access the Office 365 apps, Microsoft has a plan to suit those needs.
- Always updated desktop and mobile versions of Office apps, including Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, plus OneNote (Access and Publisher are available for PC only)
- 1 TB of cloud storage per user with OneDrive
- One licence covers Office apps on five devices per user (iOS and Android).
Choosing the right Microsoft 365 Business Plan
With Microsoft’s services and advanced security features, it is hardly surprising Microsoft 365 Business will allow your business to run efficiently and securely, with enhanced productivity and communication tools that allow your workforce to collaborate wherever they are. With the increased interest in hybrid workforces and the modern workplace, Microsoft 365 Business offers unparalleled solutions for SMEs that were previously only available to enterprises.
If you want to take the next step with your business with Microsoft 365 Business and aren’t sure what option is best for you, talk to the Microsoft specialists at Itopia. They live and breathe all things Microsoft and offer expert consultation to businesses who want more from their Microsoft investment.
Adam leads the Itopia team in Brisbane, helping professional-services firms get secure, productive and confident with their technology, in plain English.