Microsoft 365, formerly known as Office 365 and renamed in 2020, represents a complete solution of cloud-based productivity tools developed by Microsoft. This suite has evolved offering a transition from a software package that can be installed via CD to a dynamic service hosted on the cloud. That change reflected Microsoft's commitment to accessibility, collaboration, and versatility. In this article, let's see the advantages of Microsoft 365 for companies and what changes from Office 365 in terms of licenses and functionality.
Microsoft 365 is configured as a powerful resource that integrates a wide range of applications and services, aimed at improving productivity, collaboration and security for organizations of all sizes. By combining local and cloud-based apps, Microsoft 365 offers a suite of tools that can meet the diverse needs of businesses.
So what is Microsoft 365? Unlike the stand-alone versions of Microsoft Office, Microsoft 365 has been specially designed to ensure accessibility anywhere and on any device, it represents a flexible solution for increasingly mobile and dispersed users. The transition to Microsoft 365 brought with it a number of new features and advanced features. Among these, the ability to collaborate in real time on shared documents represents a significant change, allowing multiple users to work simultaneously on the same file, regardless of their geographical location.
The implementation of automatic updates ensures that users have continuous access to the latest versions and functionality without the need for manual interventions to update the software. In addition, the integration of Microsoft 365 with other third-party services and applications has significantly expanded the possibilities of using the suite.
Microsoft 365 is aimed at a public sector, ranging from individual consumers and small businesses to large companies and educational institutions.
Microsoft 365 has adopted a cloud-based model, revolutionizing the way users interact with Microsoft's suite of productivity tools. Thanks to this cloud platform, all applications and files are stored online, on Microsoft servers, instead of being limited to the user's local device only. This innovative mode of access and storage offers greater flexibility and ease of access, allowing you to work and collaborate from any place and device connected to the Internet.
Microsoft 365 is based on a cloud-based architectural model, which forms the core of its functionality. Rather than being installed and used from a single computer, Microsoft 365 apps and services are hosted on secure Microsoft servers and accessible via the internet. This means that users can use Word, Excel, PowerPoint and other tools from any device connected to the internet, whether it's a computer, tablet or smartphone. This online model ensures that Microsoft 365 users have continuous access to their work and the ability to collaborate with others, overcoming geographical and device limitations.
Synchronization is another foundation of Microsoft 365's efficiency. This feature keeps the work of users up to date on all their devices. When a user edits a document on their tablet, the changes are instantly saved in the cloud and are reflected when the user accesses the document on their laptop or shares it with a colleague.
This functionality also extends to team collaboration. If multiple people are working on a document, spreadsheet, or presentation, changes made by any team member are immediately visible to everyone else, with updates taking place in real time. The synchronization offered by Microsoft 365 not only helps to maintain the consistency of the work, but also eliminates the confusion associated with the different versions of the documents.
Microsoft 365 comes with a wide range of collaboration tools designed to facilitate teamwork. As already mentioned, one of its main features is the ability to collaborate in real time, available in apps such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint. This feature allows multiple users to edit a document simultaneously, with each person's contributions visible in real time. Each collaborator's cursor and text entry are marked with their unique identifier, making it clear who is contributing and what they are modifying.
In addition to document editing, Microsoft 365 also offers Microsoft Teams, a complete platform for group communication and collaboration. By integrating chats, video conferencing, file sharing, and collaborative document editing into a single interface, Microsoft Teams further simplifies group projects and discussions.
Microsoft 365 connects to other Microsoft services such as OneDrive, allowing for easy file storage and sharing. The integration with SharePoint also facilitates advanced document management and internet capabilities for team collaboration. Beyond the Microsoft ecosystem, Microsoft 365 supports integration with numerous third-party apps, adding layers of functionality customized to meet specific business needs. This can range from the use of project management tools to customer relationship management (CRM) systems.
Microsoft 365 is a suite of apps and services designed to meet a wide range of productivity and collaboration needs. Let's take a closer look at what's included in Microsoft 365.
Within Microsoft 365, bonus features integrate artificial intelligence and automation to simplify tasks and improve the user experience. In the context of Microsoft 365, the AI-powered Editor in Word offers advanced grammar and style suggestions to perfect the user's writing.
Excel's artificial intelligence capabilities automate data analysis, quickly identifying trends and simplifying data interpretation. The security in Microsoft 365 exceeds that of the stand-alone Office suite. It includes data loss prevention to protect sensitive information and advanced threat protection to defend against cyberthreats such as phishing and malware. These features ensure compliance with international data protection standards, which is essential for companies that manage sensitive data.
The Microsoft 365 update system ensures that users always have the latest features and security improvements. Unlike traditional software, updates in Microsoft 365 are automatic and frequent, eliminating the need for manual updates or the purchase of new versions.
To successfully implement business processes within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem, the following skills are needed:
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Microsoft 365 for business offers a wide range of benefits that enable organizations to thrive in today's digital landscape. Here are some of the key benefits of using Microsoft 365:
With Microsoft 365, businesses can protect their sensitive data and defend themselves against cyberthreats. Comprehensive security features include advanced threat protection, data loss prevention, and multi-factor authentication, ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of the organization's information.
Microsoft 365 provides a suite of powerful tools and applications that improve productivity in the workplace. With apps like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, employees can create, edit, and collaborate on documents seamlessly. Features such as real-time co-authorization and file sharing allow teams to work together efficiently, fostering a culture of productivity and innovation.
Microsoft 365 offers robust communication and collaboration capabilities that facilitate effective teamwork. With Microsoft Teams, you can easily chat and collaborate with colleagues, whether they're in the office or remotely. The integration of Outlook and SharePoint allows for seamless sharing of files, calendars and projects, allowing for efficient collaboration between departments and teams.
Microsoft 365 ensures that you always have access to the latest versions of Office applications and cloud-based services. This means that companies will have access to the latest new features and updates, allowing them to stay ahead of the competition and take advantage of cutting-edge technologies.
With Microsoft 365, businesses can efficiently manage devices and applications within the organization. Tools such as Microsoft Intune allow centralized management of devices, ensuring that they are secure, up-to-date, and compliant with the organization's policies. In addition, you can distribute and manage custom apps through the Microsoft Store, simplifying app distribution and updates.
By taking advantage of Microsoft 365, organizations can empower their workforce, protect their data, and drive innovation in today's rapidly changing business landscape.
When we talk about productivity suites, we often refer to both Microsoft Office and Microsoft 365. While both offer essential tools for personal and professional use, it's crucial to understand the differences between them.
In the past, Microsoft Office consisted of individual applications such as Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook, which were purchased as a single package. While it was a reliable solution for creating documents, presentations, and managing email, it lacked the integrated, cloud-based capabilities that are increasingly essential in today's digital landscape.
On the other hand, Microsoft 365 is a cloud-based service that goes beyond the functionality of Microsoft Office. In addition to the classic Office applications, it also offers advanced cloud functionality, regular updates, and subscription plans. With Microsoft 365, users can collaborate seamlessly, access files from anywhere, and benefit from enhanced security measures. In addition, Microsoft 365 offers a range of customized plans for different needs, including plans for businesses, businesses, and educational institutions.
Although commonly considered a simple restyling of the Office suite, the move to Microsoft 365 represents a real revolution in the way we work, collaborate and communicate digitally. Microsoft 365 was designed as a system to improve the productivity of individuals and organizations through the use of intelligent cloud services, advanced security standards and innovative applications that are constantly updated. In particular, Microsoft 365 stands out as the hub for Office 365 applications, third-party apps, Microsoft Power Platform and Microsoft Viva.
It's important to note that Office 365 licenses are automatically converted to Microsoft 365 licenses, ensuring a smooth and seamless transition. Instead, they remain unchanged:
In addition, it is possible to purchase individual Office 365 applications with Office 2021 licenses, while maintaining flexibility in the approach to buying and using the software. Another benefit of moving to Microsoft 365 is the maintenance of the cost of the Office 365 subscription, with no price changes. Each license is automatically updated and renamed, providing access to new functionality at no additional cost.
This plan only includes online services, such as Exchange Online and OneDrive for Business, without access to the Office desktop apps. It's designed for organizations that want to manage email and cloud storage, but that have already invested in Office desktop programs.
Price: 5.60 euro user/month
This plan offers only the Office desktop apps and OneDrive for Business cloud file storage. It does not include the Exchange Online email service or other online services. It's especially good for small businesses that want easy access to Office apps and cloud storage, but who prefer to keep their email outside of Microsoft's servers.
Price: 9.80 euro user/month
This Microsoft 365 plan includes all online services and desktop apps.
Price: 11.70 euro user/month
It includes all online services and desktop apps, plus advanced protection against cyberthreats and device management through Microsoft Intune.
Price: 20.60 euro user/month
It offers online services and online versions of Office apps but does not include desktop apps. This plan is specifically aimed at businesses that want to offer email and cloud storage to their employees in the field.
Price: 7.50 euro user/month
It combines the full range of online services and desktop apps and is the most popular plan for large businesses. This plan includes advanced email retention and discovery capabilities to address legal issues.
Price: 35.70 euro user/month
It includes some advanced eDiscovery features as well as enterprise-level security features. For example, every Microsoft 365 E5 subscription is automatically an endpoint for Microsoft Threat Analytics and can be integrated with Microsoft Defender for Endpoint.
Price: 57.70 euro user/month
Thanks to the Microsoft 365 subscription model, organizations can select licenses and costs based on their size and functionality needs. With a wide range of plans available, Microsoft allows tailor-made customization for small businesses and large businesses. Predictable monthly spending per user allows IT budget planning in advance, with the possibility of benefiting from discounts by choosing annual rather than monthly payment.
Microsoft 365 offers advanced cybersecurity features, including built-in antivirus, spam filtering, disaster recovery, and two-factor authentication for cloud storage. This ensures reliable protection for business data and communications, ensuring user peace of mind.
With Microsoft 365, users can easily access their files from any location and device, encouraging collaboration in real time. Tools such as Microsoft Teams further simplify communication and information sharing, improving the productivity of business teams.
Automatic updates, cutting-edge technologies, and support for mobile devices improve business continuity and business resilience. Regulatory compliance and data loss prevention capabilities ensure business data protection and regulatory compliance.
Thanks to the spread and reliability of Microsoft 365 tools, learning is quick and intuitive for new users. This reduces training time and increases the team's overall efficiency.
Microsoft 365 is more than just a productivity suite. With its combination of advanced tools, integrated security, ease of use, and flexibility, Microsoft 365 stands out as a comprehensive solution for the collaboration, communication, and data management needs of modern organizations.
With its ability to adapt to the size and needs of any company, Microsoft 365 confirms itself as a fundamental tool for improving operational efficiency, promoting innovation and ensuring data security in an increasingly digital and interconnected environment.
Microsoft 365 is a cloud-based productivity suite that includes apps like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and collaboration tools such as Teams. It is designed for flexible access from any device and supports real-time collaboration.
While Office 365 focused on standalone apps, Microsoft 365 integrates cloud services, real-time updates, and advanced security features, offering a comprehensive solution for modern workplaces.
Subscription plans range from Business Basic to Enterprise E5, catering to different organizational needs, with pricing starting from €5.60 per user/month.
The Modern Work team effectively and swiftly addresses IT needs, primarily focusing on software development. The technical staff is well-trained in implementing software projects using Microsoft technology stacks and is skilled in managing both agile and long-term projects.
