What is Microsoft 365?

Microsoft 365 is a subscription service from Microsoft. Traditionally, you could only purchase such software with a CD. You would own it forever and only need to upgrade when you got a new machine, or when the software was no longer supported. Now there are a variety of productivity tools that are all on a subscription basis. These tools include familiar applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. It also now includes cloud services like OneDrive and Exchange. With the subscription base, the applications are regularly updated. You always have the option to upgrade to the latest version for no additional cost. Microsoft 365 helps businesses work more efficiently and collaborate easily.

What is Microsoft Teams?

Microsoft Teams is a communication and collaboration platform that comes with Microsoft 365. It gives users the ability to chat, have videos meetings, share files, and even make phone calls. As Microsoft Teams continues to evolve, so do the applications it can easily integrate with. It is designed to be your productivity application. No matter where you are, it is meant to make collaboration and teamwork easier! You can make and receive phone calls like any other computer (soft) phone. You can answer on any device and transfer it to another device seamlessly. You can even run a full-fledged webinar. There are new tools and upgrades happening regularly. If you can think of a need, there is most likely a solution available for it to be incorporated in Teams.

Microsoft 365 Business Plans

Basic

Includes Microsoft Teams, web, and mobile versions. Good for businesses needing email, cloud storage, and teamwork tools. However, this will have the most limited version.

Standard

Full access to the desktop version of Microsoft Teams. This will offer more integration with an easy-to-use application. It will also allow you more control over meetings.

Premium

Everything in Business Standard plus advanced security and device management features.  This resembles more of the entry level Enterprise plans.

NOTE:  As of April 1st 2024 – All Enterprise Plans will no longer include Microsoft Teams, but must be purchased as a separate license.  However, current customers that have Microsoft Teams in their Enterprise Plans, will be grandfathered in.  Small Business Plans will continue to include them.

How Can Microsoft Teams Benefit Your Business?

Better Communication

Microsoft Teams offers chat, audio calls, and video meetings all in one place. Whether you need to send a quick message or hold a large meeting, Teams makes it easy. It can be instant communication when you need it.

Seamless Integrations

Teams integrate smoothly with other Microsoft 365 services. You can share files from OneDrive or schedule meetings through Outlook. You can work together on documents in real-time.

Easy File Sharing and Collaboration

Sharing files is simple with Teams. You can access SharePoint and OneDrive directly and attach files in chats. This ensures everyone has the documents they need to collaborate effectively. You can even assign tasks and create Teams with multiple Channels or project details to keep everyone on the same page.

Customizable

Teams supports a range of third-party apps. You can customize your Teams to fit your business needs. You can add project management tools, customer relationship systems, and so much more. So, for all the tools you use now, you can integrate them into one place.

Secure and Compliant

Microsoft Teams benefits from Microsoft’s strong security features. It includes data encryption and multi-factor authentication. Compliance is available across many industry standards, keeping your business data safe.

Microsoft 365 includes Microsoft Teams. It is making M365 a powerful tool for improving productivity and teamwork in your business. Teams brings communication, file sharing, and app integration together in one platform. It can help streamline operations and foster collaboration.

For business owners, investing in Microsoft 365 with Microsoft Teams can lead to better efficiency, improved communication, and enhanced security. If you’re looking to upgrade your business tools, Microsoft 365 with Teams is a great option to consider. Not all Microsoft Teams are the same. Talk to one of our experts today to learn which plans are best to meet your business needs.