Matthias Attard
Jul 10, 2023
Matthias Attard
Jul 10, 2023
Microsoft 365 is a cloud-based subscription service that offers a suite of productivity tools and applications for businesses and individuals.
It includes popular programs such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Teams, SharePoint, and more. Last year, Microsoft said it had 345 million Office users with 270 million Teams users (FY22 Q2 results).
But what makes Microsoft 365 so appealing and why has it gained so much in popularity?
First and foremost, M365 is a suite of productivity tools that can help modernise a business’s infrastructure and streamline daily operations. This allows it to focus on its core goals: revenue and growth.
With M365, businesses get a considerable upgrade from Office 365 in that you get a range of additional tools such as cloud storage and security, data analytics, customer support and email management. A major bonus for businesses that have multiple locations or are dependent on remote workers, is that they can benefit from all the features on any device, anywhere, anytime as long as there is an internet connection.
Let’s look at some of the benefits in more detail:
Microsoft 365 offers a suite of tools and applications designed to improve productivity and facilitate collaboration. Additionally, cloud-based file storage and sharing through OneDrive and SharePoint encourage real-time collaboration among team members, making it easier to work together on projects regardless of location or device.
As a subscription-based service, businesses can scale their usage and pay only for the number of users they need. This scalability is particularly advantageous for growing businesses that require flexibility in terms of adding or removing employees from the service. Additionally, Microsoft 365 is accessible from various devices and operating systems, including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android, providing employees with the freedom to work from their preferred device.
Microsoft has focused a lot on security and continues to invest heavily in security measures to protect user data and ensure compliance with industry regulations. Microsoft 365 includes built-in security features such as data encryption, threat detection, and multi-factor authentication to safeguard sensitive information. Moreover, it provides businesses with tools to meet various compliance requirements, making it suitable for organisations dealing with sensitive data.
Businesses benefit from continuous updates and access to the latest features and innovations. With regular updates, security patches, and feature enhancements to its applications, users have access to the most up-to-date tools and functionalities. This eliminates the need for manual software upgrades and ensures access to the latest technology and capabilities to improve operations.
Microsoft 365 seamlessly integrates with other Microsoft products and services, creating a cohesive ecosystem for businesses. Microsoft 365 supports compatibility with various third-party applications, ensuring businesses can leverage their existing software investments while benefiting from the productivity suite.
No matter what kind of business you operate, Microsoft 365 likely has tools that can help one or more facets of your operation. The breadth of services means that your operational and security posture are addressed as the business grows in size, complexity and need for security and risk management.
