As the owner of an SMB, you need to know that all your operations are running smoothly. If even the simplest of tasks can’t be completed efficiently, your entire business is at risk. Starting with the basics, you need to easily be able to communicate with your team, streamline operations, and protect your data. The right Microsoft 365 license can accomplish this. With three Microsoft 365 licenses available for businesses, this cloud-based suite offers productivity and collaboration tools that can transform your business when used effectively. Continue reading to learn how your business can utilize these Microsoft 365 applications to optimize your business operations.
Centralized Collaboration and Communication
Without strong communication, your business will fail to run smoothly. This doesn’t just apply to communicating externally, but internally as well. If your team members can’t coordinate with each other on projects and client needs, confusion quickly ensues, and simple tasks become more complicated. A Microsoft 365 license helps streamline communication by combining chats, meetings, and calls in one application known as Microsoft Teams. This application lets employees send quick messages or schedule calls with each other or external parties securely, so they communicate anytime from anywhere.
A major part of running any business is being able to access files at a moment’s notice. Microsoft 365 licenses provide applications like OneDrive and SharePoint to make it easy for employees to access and edit shared documents. For example, OneDrive stores files securely while also providing access from any approved device. SharePoint also stores documents in a safe place, but it also allows for easy collaboration where employees can edit files as needed. This cloud-based application also ensures everyone can see the latest versions of documents by updating them in real time. So, no matter what, employees have access to the latest versions of their projects and can make changes seamlessly.
Automation to Improve Efficiency
How many manual processes are taking time away from running your business? Sending follow-up emails, approving invoices, assigning tasks, and logging customer requests are just a few tedious processes that can be automated with a Microsoft 365 license. Tools like Power Automate and Power Apps are included in many Microsoft 365 licenses and can help you streamline tasks that eat up your time. For example, you can set up a workflow that routes a purchase order for approval, notifies the right people, and logs it into a shared spreadsheet, all without lifting a finger. Even better, Microsoft 365 easily integrates with other apps like CRMs, accounting software, or project management tools. This means fewer dropped balls and more focus on high-value work.
Increased Security
If you’re dealing with people’s sensitive data, you need to ensure that all your devices are secure and up to date. This starts with ensuring your software is always using the latest security measures. Microsoft 365 licenses are cloud-based and are always being improved. Security patches, new features, and productivity enhancements roll out automatically, ensuring your business always has access to the latest tools and protections. This keeps your technology modern, your systems protected, and your team ahead of the curve.
To ensure your business’ information is secure, certain plans like Microsoft 365 Business Premium use Microsoft Defender. This application includes multi-factor authentication (MFA), data encryption, anti-phishing, and advanced threat detection to keep all your systems safe. This Microsoft 365 license also allows you to set up conditional access policies so you can control who accesses what, from where, and under what circumstances. This is just the first layer of cybersecurity businesses should have though. By working with an IT agency like Strategy IT, you can receive 24/7 monitoring, support, and even training to better your cybersecurity measures and keep your business secure.
Scalability and Cost Efficiency
Every business is unique, and a one size fits all solution may not work for everyone. That’s why there are three Microsoft 365 licenses specifically for businesses with up to 300 employees. Each one includes web and mobile Office 365 applications, SharePoint, and Bookings, Planner, and Forms to create a simpler business experience. All three Microsoft 365 licenses are also easy to purchase and scale. Additionally, these Microsoft 365 Business Basic, Business Standard, and Business Premium can be effortlessly upgraded as your business grows, and you need more resources to improve efficiency.
Learn More About How to Optimize Your IT Systems
Microsoft 365 licenses don’t just streamline your operations; they create a more efficient workflow that increases your business’ productivity. It is a great platform, but it isn’t the only tool you need to keep your business running smoothly. A large part of optimizing your operations is protecting them from cyberattacks. Sign up for our weekly e-course and start learning how simple improving your business’ cybersecurity can be.
