The restrictions limiting in-person interactions due to the COVID-19 pandemic have accelerated the need for advanced remote communication. Microsoft has capitalized on the dramatic shift in digitalization by rolling new products that accommodate the needs of the modern workplace.
This post will cover the new features included in Microsoft 365’s first significate price increase since launching the product a decade ago.
Why is Microsoft Raising Prices on 365?
Since 365 launched in 2011, technology has evolved significantly, allowing for better communication and collaboration. Video conferencing, cloud storage, and seamless document sharing were new concepts a decade but have been integrated into everyday life because of the pandemic.
Microsoft recognizes the opportunity to unify its products and incorporate effective collaboration tools. However, doing so is more expensive and incurs substantial cyber security threats.
What’s Included in the New Pricing?
Price increases are always frustrating, especially when your business or organization is dependent on the products. However, the added value is worth the extra cost, especially when compared to other individual business and collaboration tools on the market.
New Communication and Collaboration Functionality
Microsoft Teams was transformed 365 into the most versatile collaboration tool available in 2022. The product has been included in a 365 subscription, but a price increase was inevitable as more features were rolled out.
In 2020 alone, Microsoft
300 new capabilities to Teams, including “Together mode, background effects, large gallery view, raise hand, live reactions, breakout rooms, live captions with speaker attribution, and Fluid components, just to name a few.”
As the workplace shifts to a hybrid model, Teams builds an infrastructure that integrates with other essential software like Adobe, Salesforce, and Workday. Creating a seamless workflow is critical when employees aren’t limited to the walls of an office.
Unlimited Audio Conferencing Capabilities
With the announcement of increased prices, Microsoft has also released a new feature adding unlimited dial-in capabilities to enterprise, frontline, and government suites through Teams. Including a dial-in connection, the option allows for users without an internet connection to join meetings on the go. The new connectivity function is being rolled out to select sectors in the next few months but will be available in 70 countries and 44 languages and dialects with a subscription in the future.
Improved Security
In 2021 we witnessed the most active year in cyberattacks in history. According to Norton, over 2,200 cyber security breaks took place per day, affecting massive corporations, government agencies, and small businesses.
Content management systems are among the most effective way to steal personal data and disrupt networks. As a result, Microsoft has committed to improving its security, protecting the 300 million commercial 365 accounts.
Data loss prevention (DLP) and encrypted messaging capabilities are among the many features included in the new Microsoft 365 pricing. As networks rely heavily on cloud storage, the need for heightened security and minimizing loss becomes more important.
AI-Powered Innovations
Integrating AI and automation into Microsoft 365 products increases productivity and saves users time. For example, AI innovation help writers communicate more effectively, automates presentation preparation, and helps users build charts, graphs, and tables seamlessly in Excel. In addition, Microsoft’s new cloud-powered AI tools offer real-time translation, captions, and transcribing, making communication more accessible and effective for all users.
How Much Will Microsoft 365 Cost?
On March 15, 2022, the new pricing will go into effect. The changes are listed below.
Microsoft 365 Business Basic – from $5 to $6 per user
Microsoft 365 Business Premium – from $20 to $22 per user
Office 365 E1 – from $8 to $10 per user
Office 365 E3 – from $20 to $23 per user
Office 365 E5 – from $35 to $38 per user
Microsoft 365 E3 – from $32 to $36 per user
Get more done with Makios and Microsoft 365
Microsoft 365 is a great platform for businesses to improve their productivity. Makios provides custom solutions that are tailored just right according to your unique needs so don't hesitate - call (915) 217-2500 or reach out via our website now!
