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4 Cloud Collaboration Tools Your SMB Needs to Unplug & Stay Connected

In this article, we’re highlighting four of the most popular cloud-based collaboration tools that we can't live without. As summer gets into full swing here in Boise, SMB owners can feel confident unplugging without losing touch with what's happening across the business.

Cloud Adoption for SMB

Cloud computing provides a way of accessing computing resources like computing power, storage, servers, and databases over the internet via a third-party provider. You no longer need expensive hardware to run your business. All you need is an internet connection and a pocket-friendly cloud subscription. 

Cloud computing for business enables you to scale your business on-demand, helps you reduce costs, makes it easier for your employees to collaborate, safeguards your business operations, and much more. The fact that over 92% companies use cloud-based services says a lot about the adoption of cloud computing. 

Why Microsoft 365?

Microsoft 365 is a suite of software products that enable modern, digital work, no matter where it's taking place. Whereas past versions of Microsoft Office required a single software installation on each device, Microsoft 365 is a cloud-based program that provides connectivity whether users are on laptops, tablets, or smartphones.

Office 365 includes popular Microsoft tools such as:

  • Word
  • Excel
  • PowerPoint
  • OneNote
  • Outlook
  • Access
  • Publisher
  • SharePoint

Powering Remote & Hybrid Work

Microsoft 365 allows individuals and teams the ability to work, manage tasks, and share information securely, no matter where they are. 

Although some aspects of Microsoft 365 are suited to individual effort, many programs are designed for teamwork and collaboration. When you choose a collaborative tool, you must make sure that it works effectively, offers advanced security, and streamlines processes.

The Microsoft 365 tools listed below offer these benefits and much more. Take a look at everything these programs have to offer your business.

Tool 1: Video Collaboration

Microsoft Teams is a communication app that provides plenty of collaborative features, including the ability to share video meetings and invitations, chat with coworkers, share files, and more.

Why we love it: Microsoft Teams offers live access that helps users learn and work together. The different plan levels (Home, Business, Enterprise, and Education) make it easy to connect in different contexts with the same powerful flexibility.

Tool 2: Email

Outlook offers hosted business-class email available on mobile, tablets, desktops, and the web, allowing you to easily manage shared calendars, schedule meetings, respond to invitations, and get reminders, all from a single connected inbox.

Why we love it: We rely on email communication all day, every day. Having a platform that is secure, reliable, and always accessible will make or break productivity in an instant.

Tool 3: Intranet

SharePoint is Microsoft 365’s version of the intranet. Users can easily and securely access important files, confidential documents, and other types of business content and applications.

SharePoint allows for customization by project, department, or division. This software is accessible regardless of whether users are on PCs, Macs, or mobile devices.

Why we love it: A powerful intranet promotes team cohesion, and SharePoint offers visually-pleasing project management and storytelling tools.

Tool 4: File Sharing

OneDrive is cloud-based storage for personal and business use. Similar to Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive can be accessed from anywhere, making it perfect for remote or distance work. Users can share protected files, documents, photos, and folders with customizable access.

Why we love it: With files on-demand and protected document sharing, OneDrive is a safe choice for business users that need to see and use files without delay.

Soak Up the Summer with the Confidence of Cloud Collaboration

MicroTech offers Microsoft 365 Consultation Services so that you can select the best programs for your particular needs. When you collaborate with our trained team of Microsoft experts, you can make the right decisions without having to research, migrate, or make sweeping changes on your own.

So while your employees unplug and recharge this summer, keep your small business connected through cloud collaboration.

Schedule Your Microsoft Audit