Microsoft 365 buying guide: How to pick the right version for your business?

Choosing the right Microsoft 365 subscription for your business in the UAE can significantly impact your business’s productivity. This guide will help you navigate the various options available through authorized Microsoft 365 vendors in Dubai and across the UAE.

Understanding Microsoft 365 Business Plans

Microsoft 365 Business Basic

It is best for small businesses to start their digital transformation. The key features include:

  • Web and mobile versions of Office apps
  • Exchange email hosting
  • Teams for communication
  • SharePoint for document management
  • 1TB OneDrive storage

Microsoft 365 Business Standard

The Business Standard version is best for growing businesses needing full Office functionality. The plan has additional features that include:

  • Desktop versions of Office apps
  • Advanced appointment scheduling
  • Premium business apps
  • Advanced security features

Microsoft 365 Business Premium

Organizations requiring enhanced security can go for Microsoft 365 Business Premium. The advanced features of the Business Premium version include:

  • All Standard Features
  • Intune device management
  • Azure Information Protection
  • Advanced Threat Protection
  • PC and mobile device security

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Plan

 Business Size and Growth Plans

  • Small businesses (1-10 employees): Consider Business Basic or Standard’ Plan
  • Medium businesses (11-300 employees): Business Standard or Premium recommended
  • Business with 11-300 employees: Business Standard or Premium
  • Enterprise organizations: Engage with Enterprise plans through specialist resellers

Security Requirements

For most security requirements, Business Basic or Standard will suffice. However, for strong security, which is included in Business Premium, the following: 

  • Security of remote working
  • Device management
  • Data security
  • Compliance

Industry-specific requirements

  • Professional services- focus on email and document collaboration.
  • Retail- more communication tools and basic Office apps.
  • Financial services- premium security features if you need financial services
  • Healthcare- compliance and data protection

Technical support requirements

When you buy from Authorized Vendors in Dubai

  • Look for 24/7 local support
  • Implementation assistance
  • Training services
  • Migration support from existing systems

How to Purchase Microsoft 365 in Dubai and UAE

You need to look out for Microsoft Certified Partners that include verified vendors, implementation expertise, and competitive pricing. By Buying from local vendors, you get billing in AED as they have a better understanding of UAE business requirements.

How to Make the Final Decision?

The reputation of vendors in the UAE market, the potential capabilities offered by vendors in support, any additional services, and the level of implementation expertise are factors to evaluate.

While considering implementation, properly go through migration planning, integrate with existing systems, and comply with UAE regulations.

Remove unused licenses; Request annual commitments that typically result in better pricing; create a pattern for monitoring utilization or usage patterns; and Leverage vendor bulk discounts.

Conclusion

For an organization, it is quite challenging to choose the appropriate Microsoft 365 plan because of its seriousness and complexity in selecting a plan as per the organization’s needs, growth plans, and requirements for security in places like Dubai and the UAE. Working with authorized vendors ensures you receive the necessary local support and expertise for the successful implementation and maintenance of your Microsoft 365 environment.

For the most current pricing and detailed feature comparisons, consult with authorized Microsoft 365 vendors in Dubai who can provide tailored solutions for your business needs.

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