Microsoft offers their products and services for different types of business needs in a variety of bundles. Figuring out all the different subscription options and licensing details can be complicated. We can help you understand Microsoft 365 subscriptions and licensing, so you can choose what’s best for your business. Whether you’re thinking about moving to Microsoft 365 or just want to make the most of what you currently have, having a basic understanding of the various plans and what they mean for your business is really important.

Getting to Know Microsoft 365

Let’s jump into the world of Microsoft 365 and make these decisions a bit easier for you starting with the basics of Microsoft 365: subscriptions, plans and licenses.

Subscriptions

These bundle up different services and applications, like Word and Excel, and you pay for them on a recurring basis. Subscriptions include Business Basic, Standard, Premium and 365 Apps for Business.

Plans

These are the different packages within each subscription. Your plan determines the specific services and features you have access to, from the essentials for small businesses to more comprehensive options for larger companies.

Licenses

These are basically your tickets to your Microsoft 365 subscription. Everyone using the services needs one.

Microsoft 365 also breaks down its offerings into three main types: consumer-grade for individuals or small teams, business-class for small to medium businesses, and enterprise for the bigger players. Figuring out which one matches your business helps you choose the right plan.

Picking the Right Microsoft 365 Plan

Deciding on which Microsoft 365 plan you need involves a few key things to think about:

User Count and Roles

How many people need access to Microsoft 365, and what are their roles? This influences the scale and type of plan you require.

Functional Requirements

Assess whether everyone needs the full suite of Microsoft 365 applications. Sometimes, more basic functions are adequate, which can be more cost-effective.

Email Storage and Retention Needs

If you deal with a high volume of email or need to comply with data retention laws, choose a plan that offers robust email capabilities.

Security Considerations

Security is a critical factor. Evaluate the security features of each plan, such as data encryption, threat protection, and compliance tools. Ensure the plan you choose aligns with your organization’s security requirements and policies.

Integration and Compatibility

Consider how the Microsoft 365 plan integrates with your existing systems and software. Seamless integration can enhance productivity and reduce learning curves. Also, check for compatibility with critical business tools to ensure a smooth workflow across your organization.

Balancing these factors is crucial for a well-rounded approach to your Microsoft 365 subscription, ensuring operational efficiency and data security.

Monthly vs. Annual Subscriptions

When it comes to choosing between monthly and annual Microsoft 365 subscriptions, think about flexibility and budgeting. Annual plans often come with a discount, making them cost-effective for teams that don’t experience fluctuations in headcount through the year. But they require a year-long commitment.

Monthly plans, on the other hand, offer the freedom to scale up or down each month. This can be a smart move for businesses with seasonal peaks or growth phases. It’s all about finding what works best for your team’s size and how often your staffing needs change.

Keep in mind the total cost, including how the subscription affects your team’s work and productivity.

XPERTECHS Manages Microsoft 365 Licensing

Handling Microsoft 365 subscriptions can get tricky, especially when you don’t have a dedicated IT team. When you’re an XPERTECHS client, we make everything about Microsoft 365 easy. Here’s how we help:

Tailored Advice and Planning

We kick things off by getting to know your business inside out – what you need, your team’s setup, and your tech goals. This helps us figure out the appropriate Microsoft 365 plan for you, pinpointing where you can save money or where a little extra investment can go a long way.

Keeping License Management on Point

We keep tabs on all your licenses, making sure they’re in the right hands and that you’re not spending on extras you don’t need. Regular check-ins help us adjust your plan, so it’s always the right fit for your team.

Cutting Down Your To-Do List

We take the reins on all the admin stuff – managing accounts, renewing subscriptions, and keeping things in line with Microsoft’s rules. This frees up your time to focus on the big picture stuff for your business.

Always There When You Need Us

Our crew is on standby to answer any questions. Plus, we’re always clued in on the latest from Microsoft 365, so we can give you tips on using new features to boost your business.

Simplifying Your Bills

One bill, all your Microsoft 365 costs, clear and simple. If there are any questions or issues, clients just reach out to us without having to go through Microsoft’s hoops.

Adapt as You Grow

Businesses change, and so do tech needs. We’re here to help your Microsoft 365 setup evolve as your business does, ensuring it’s always the right tool for where you’re at and where you’re headed.

Working with us makes managing Microsoft 365 straightforward and stress-free. We’re all about making sure your subscription is not just meeting your current needs, but also ready to grow and adapt with your business, offering ongoing value and support.

Teaming Up with XPERTECHS for Microsoft 365

Getting your head around Microsoft 365 is important, but keeping on top of it all can be tough. That’s where we come in. Our team is here to align your Microsoft 365 subscription with business needs, offering support and advice along the way. When you work with us, Microsoft 365 becomes a key part of your business, equipping your people with the tools they need to be productive and helping your business grow.

Contact us to schedule a consultation.