As an accountant or lawyer, managing sensitive client data while navigating complex regulatory requirements is a daily challenge. From ensuring compliance with GDPR and AML regulations to protecting against cyber threats, the responsibility to safeguard operations and ensure flawless service delivery is critical. Coupled with the need to streamline workflows and adapt to modern client expectations, choosing the right tools is no longer optional, it’s essential. Microsoft 365 offers you two powerful packages tailored to your needs: Business Standard and Business Premium. However, feedback from our customers showed us that choosing the right option is not always that straightforward. As a UK-based IT solutions provider, we compare these two packages to help you understand the differences and ensure that you are implementing the best solution for your company.
Choosing between Microsoft 365 Business Standard and Business Premium?
Microsoft 365 Business Standard: A Solid Starting Point
Microsoft 365 Business Standard provides essential productivity tools for modern businesses.
Key features include:
- Access to Core Apps: Desktop and web versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, enabling seamless document creation and collaboration.
- Cloud Storage: 1TB of OneDrive storage per user ensures ample space for storing and sharing files.
- Collaboration Tools: Applications like Teams, SharePoint, and Loop facilitate teamwork and file sharing.
While Business Standard is a great entry-level package for smaller companies, it lacks the advanced security and automation features critical for industries like accounting and law.
Microsoft 365 Business Premium: Built for Security and Growth
For companies dealing with sensitive client information and compliance mandates, Business Premium offers significant advantages over the Standard package.
Here’s why:
Enterprise-Grade Security:
- Microsoft Defender: Protects against malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks.
- Microsoft Intune: Secures remote work environments by ensuring all devices meet strict security policies.
- Microsoft Purview: Provides advanced data governance and loss prevention to safeguard sensitive information.
Identity and Access Management:
- Entra ID: Goes beyond credential management by identifying users and maintaining consistent access controls across devices and locations.
Automation and Insights:
- Microsoft Flow: Automates repetitive tasks, saving time and reducing errors.
- Power BI: Enables data-driven decisions with powerful analytics and interactive reporting.
Regulatory Compliance:
- Accountants and lawyers in the UK must comply with stringent regulations like GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation), AML (Anti-Money Laundering) directives, and SRA (Solicitors Regulation Authority) standards. Business Premium’s enhanced security and data management tools simplify compliance by protecting client data, ensuring secure access, and maintaining detailed audit trails.
Why IT Backbone?
Implementing the right Microsoft 365 package can be complex, especially for firms with unique regulatory and operational requirements. That’s where IT Backbone comes in. Based in the UK, IT Backbone specialises in helping accountants and lawyers optimise their IT environments.
Here’s how we can assist you:
- Tailored Solutions: IT Backbone’s experts assess your firm’s needs to recommend the ideal Microsoft 365 package.
- Seamless Implementation: From migration to configuration, IT Backbone ensures a smooth transition with minimal disruption to your operations.
- Ongoing Support: Our team provides continuous monitoring and support to keep your systems running securely and efficiently.
- Regulatory Expertise: With a deep understanding of industry-specific regulations, IT Backbone ensures your IT setup aligns with compliance requirements.
Your choice between Microsoft 365 Business Standard and Business Premium boils down to your company’s security needs and growth ambitions. While Business Standard offers robust tools for everyday tasks, Business Premium provides the advanced security, automation and compliance features essential for highly regulated industries.
Partnering with IT Backbone can make the transition to Microsoft 365 and the setup seamless and effective. With our expertise, your company can leverage the full potential of Microsoft 365 to streamline processes, enhance security and maintain compliance.
To learn more, book a chat with Jason and take the first step toward a more efficient and secure future for your business.
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