It’s a proven fact that introducing technology in a business reduced costs and improves efficiency and service delivery. The cost factor is especially a key point for SMEs because they are able to do more with less. They also don’t have the deep pockets that big businesses have and anything that saves them money while still achieving the objective is especially welcome.
Microsoft has a raft of solutions for businesses but the thing about the company is that it has made them easier to use accross platforms. They are also cost effective which means that they can fit even an SME budget. I have profiled, below, some of the Microsoft products that I think SMEs should be using.
1. Windows 10
Windows 10 was launched almost a year ago with those that had legitimate Windows 7, 8 and 8.1 getting a free upgrade. With the new operating system, Microsoft went back to the drawing board and completely rewrote it.
The best thing about Windows 10 is that there is a central point to get apps. It used to be that employees installed all sorts of apps that they needed from all sorts of places without knowing if they were legit. With Windows 10, there’s the app store that includes both free and paid apps. The store is familiar for those who have been using Windows Phone devices.
Windows 10 is also easier to use and organize, starting with the start menu. It is also easier to integrate email into it regardless of the email service your company uses. Google Apps users especially will love the fact that that the email app on Windows 10 also pulls their calendar and makes it available via the calendar app.
Other Microsoft solutions including Office 365 plus all the new apps work best with Windows 10. Also, Windows 10 is more secure and gives the user more privacy control. For instance it is possible to turn off access to the web cam and microphone to apps.
2. Office 365
We have talked extensively about Office 365 here. However it is pretty important especially for small businesses because it encourages collaboration among teams. This is especially important if the teams are not based in the same location. It also helps businesses access important documents and information no matter where they are. It’s also important because businesses are able to get the latest version of Office.
3. Azure
Microsoft’s cloud platform Azure allows businesses to set up their websites and apps on it instead of having to invest in expensive infrastructure and run it on their own. It has data centres all over the world that ensure whatever you put up on it is accessible. It costs from $13 (Ksh. 1,300) per month. Learn more about Azure here and sample it for free here.
4. Skype
Skype is especially useful for teams working in different locations. It is also great for communicating with clients and suppliers that you are unable to meet physically for one reason or another. I should mention that Office 365 comes with free Skype minutes per account.
5. Mobile devices
Through Windows Phone devices like the Lumia 550, 650, 950 and 950 XL you can sync what you are working on your PC to your smartphone. Files ca be accessed via OneDrive and things like your calendar and email can be easily ported as long as you have an Internet connection.
Additionally using apps on Android and iOS, you can access your documents and calendar on those platforms. To be honest, the Microsoft apps experience is the same, if not better.