Choosing the right software for your business is crucial, especially when it comes to tools that facilitate communication, collaboration, and security. Microsoft 365 offers a range of plans tailored to meet the needs of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). Each plan has different features and price points, so it’s important to pick the one that best fits your company’s requirements.
In this article, we’ll discuss the different Microsoft 365 plans and help you determine which is the right choice for your business.
What is Microsoft 365, and why is it great for SMBs?
Microsoft 365 is a subscription service that bundles familiar productivity applications, such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, with newer apps designed to enhance teamwork and productivity such as Microsoft Teams and OneDrive. Depending on the plan, businesses can access these apps via desktop, web, or mobile devices.
There are many reasons why Microsoft 365 is beneficial for SMBs:
- Access to up-to-date apps – With a subscription, you always have access to the latest versions of Microsoft apps.
- Mobility – Access your files and applications from any device, keeping your team productive wherever they may be working from.
- Improved collaboration – Microsoft Teams allows your team to chat, video conference, and share documents seamlessly.
- Cost-effectiveness – You can choose a plan that fits your budget and needs. Plus, you pay only for the users you have, making it scalable as your business grows.
- Enhanced security – Many plans offer advanced security features to protect your valuable data.
Different Microsoft 365 business plans for SMBs
There are four Microsoft 365 business plans that SMBs can choose from:
Microsoft 365 Business Basic – $6.00 per user/month
This entry-level plan is ideal for businesses that primarily work online, so they simply need essential communication and collaboration cloud tools without the added cost of desktop apps.
Key features of this plan include:
- Web and mobile versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook
- Custom business email (e.g., you@yourbusiness.com)
- 1 TB of cloud storage per user for file sharing
- Microsoft Teams for communication via chat, calls, and video conferencing
- Microsoft Bookings, Planner, Forms, and other business apps
- Basic security features such as spam and malware filtering
Microsoft 365 Business Standard – $12.50 per user/month
If your business wants the flexibility of working online or offline and more robust tools for collaboration and content creation, then the Business Standard plan might be the better option. This plan includes everything from the Business Basic plan, plus:
- Desktop versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook for offline access
- Advanced features such as webinars with attendee registration and reporting
- Collaborative workspace tools with Microsoft Loop
- Basic video editing and design tools with Microsoft Clipchamp
Microsoft 365 Business Premium – $22.00 per user/month
For SMBs that prioritize advanced security and device management, especially those working with sensitive information or those with remote teams using various devices, the Business Premium plan is the ideal choice. This plan offers everything in Business Standard as well as:
- Advanced security features such as protection against cyberthreats and phishing attacks
- Enterprise-grade device and endpoint protection with Microsoft Defender
- Tools to discover, classify, and safeguard sensitive data
- Advanced identity and access management with Microsoft Entra ID
- Device management capabilities with Microsoft Intune
Microsoft 365 Apps for Business – $8.25 per user/month
If your business needs the core Microsoft Office applications and cloud storage but already has other systems in place for email and collaboration, the Apps for Business plan is a suitable option. Here’s what you get when you subscribe to this plan:
- Desktop versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook
- 1 TB of cloud storage per user
- Anytime phone and web support
How to choose the right Microsoft 365 plan
Consider the following factors when deciding which Microsoft 365 plan you should get for your company:
Work arrangement
For businesses primarily operating online, the Business Basic plan may suffice. However, if your company has employees requiring offline access to applications, the Business Standard plan is a better fit.
Security needs
If protecting your business from cyberthreats is a top priority, the Business Premium plan offers the most advanced security and device management features.
Collaboration
For teams that frequently collaborate on projects and need real-time collaboration tools, the Business Standard or Business Premium plans are more suitable.
Budget
SMBs seeking basic tools and cloud storage can find excellent value in the Business Basic plan at a lower cost. Conversely, Business Premium offers a comprehensive solution for companies demanding higher security and collaboration features.
By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the Microsoft 365 plan that best aligns with your business’s requirements and budget.
If you still need help deciding which plan is right for your company, the IT experts at SpectrumWise can guide you through the process. Schedule a consultation with us to get started.
