There are lots of organisations that subscribe to Microsoft 365, but don’t utilise the full range of functionality. Collaboration, security and automation functions may be left untouched, while others, like email and Word may get good attention. A basic subscription can be so much more with the right instructions, and it can actually enhance the way a business functions, save time for personnel while enhance defenses throughout the entire organization. The difference typically lies in the system’s planning, configuration and communication with the users.
Why Expert Guidance Makes a Difference
Microsoft 365 is a comprehensive suite that encompasses Exchange, Teams, SharePoint, OneDrive, security. Careful planning is required to select the right licences, to set each service up properly and to ensure staff are taken along but it can easily be done wrong without experience. Structures and permissions of sites are just some of the choices made that can have long-term effects on business.
Without the planning, it is easy to end up with a mess of files, varying security settings and users that work around rather than with the system. Duplicate files, unclear ownership and forgotten accounts can easily accumulate. An organized approach means that you can avoid these issues and maintain a clean and manageable environment when the business grows and employees start to join the team.
Where a Consultant Adds Value
A consultant will typically start by undertaking a licence review to ensure you’re not paying too much, and are not under-protected. After that, they can import email from a previous application, configure Teams and SharePoint to ensure that files and conversations are logically arranged, and configure device management to ensure that the laptops and phones are set up properly. Every step will be arranged to minimise disruption and ensure staff continue to work.
Another significant advantage is security. There are features like multi factor authentication, conditional access, data loss prevention and email protection but these must be enabled and configured to meet your risk level. When properly implemented, this control will minimize the risk of account takeover and inadvertent data breaches while not increasing the burden of the day-to-day operations for your team or deterring information sharing.
Training, Adoption and Growth
Technology makes no contribution if people are not confident in it. Practical training and support during transition is good support, as staff are aware of not only how to use a tool, but why it is helpful. The more we get adopted, the better the ROI and eventually, lower number of support requests will be made, as people will be able to solve everyday issues themselves.
If your business grows then your set-up should grow with you. Everything from new staff to new offices and compliance needs must be taken into consideration and once the building blocks are in place, automation can save hours of time with Power Automate. The platform is now a secure, connected building block that works for the entire business with the assistance of Microsoft 365 consulting.
