Are you thinking about updating Office 365 but can’t decide if it’s really worth the trouble?
Let’s face reality. Most of the time we either upgrade when something breaks down or Microsoft starts waving an end of support warning.
However, the case is different. Office 365 upgrade is not the only reason you get to not cease support but you also get more benefits. Some UK companies even pay these without even knowing.
This is Cleartwo’s Talent. Helping the companies to identify the things covered and use them. No sweat. No tech headaches.
Upgrading Office 365 is a matter of time
If you’re still clinging to outdated Office 365 packages, you’re probably overlooking the features added in silence during these past years.
Microsoft, the company in charge, has embraced a new vision; Microsoft 365. With this, you get more intelligent tools, advanced security, and stricter compliance.
The truth between you and me is, the cost will be higher in the long run if you just stay time lost, security flaws, and staff who are unhappy at work.
Step ahead with Office 365 for modern UK businesses
Office 365 upgrade is more about a different approach to work, rather than just the latest applications.
Distributed teams. Shared files. Quick decisions. Higher protection.
And yes, you will get less FINAL FINAL v7 email
Proposal and requirements
A quick sanity check is helpful before you upgrade.
Nothing to worry about only practical arrangements. Think of it as checking your toolbox before a job.
- Active Microsoft tenant
- Supported devices
- Stable internet
- User access review
- Data backups ready
- Basic admin access
Most of the modern PCs and Macs are fine. If your kit is on Windows 11 or a recent macOS, you’re covered.
If not, Cleartwo is ready to help with an assessment regarding what needs updating and what can stay.
Don’t overlook UK compliance
UK businesses must follow specific rules especially in terms of data.
Microsoft 365 provides assistance with GDPR, Cyber Essentials, and data residency.
With regards to features, multi-factor authentication and data loss prevention are often available but sometimes turned off.
According to National Cyber Security Centre guidance, emails are the primary attack vector utilized by SMEs.
A systematic upgrade guide
To make things easier.
You don’t have to do a big bang switch.
Step one Check your plan
See exactly what you have. Many companies have outdated Office 365 UK plans.
Microsoft 365 Business Standard or Premium is slightly more expensive but it covers a lot more.
Step two Decide on the appropriate Microsoft 365 plan
Business Premium is so popular for a reason.
It provides you with apps, email, security, and device management all in one place.
You can check the current UK pricing on Microsoft’s official comparison page—it’s all laid out nice and clear at Microsoft UK pricing.
Step three Email migration plan
Migration of emails can be a complex issue. However, often it isn’t.
Done well, users don’t even notice the difference.
Tools and guidance from Microsoft Learn make this smooth.
Step four Deployment in stages
Start with a small group.
Fix issues early.
Then roll out to everyone.
Benefits that people don’t often talk about
That’s the sweet stuff.
Those are the features hiding in plain view.
Collaboration smarter
Teams and SharePoint have gotten better at interoperability.
Live editing. Version history. Real-time comments.
No hunting for attachments anymore.
Business automation with no complexity
Power Automate is one of the recognized tools.
It allows you to finalise approvals, alerts, and tasks automatically.
This is automation, not having a developer involved.
Cloud-based CRM apps
Microsoft Lists and Planner are analogous to light cloud CRM tools.
Superb for tracking leads, projects, or service requests.
They are uncomplicated, which is the idea.
The security that actually works
Defender for Office filters out phishing emails before users click on them.
Conditional access stops the wrong sign-ins.
This is IT security for SMEs, done quietly in the background.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Older Office 365 Plans | Microsoft 365 Business Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Office Apps | Basic versions | Latest apps with ongoing updates |
| Email and Calendars | Standard | Advanced security large mailboxes |
| Security | Limited | Multi-factor authentication, Defender, Conditional Access |
| Collaboration | Basic Teams and SharePoint | Enhanced Teams, SharePoint, Live Editing |
| Automation | Not included | Power Automate for workflows |
| Device Management | No | Included |
Advice we suggest
To be frank. Tools will only help if people use them.
Here is what works:
- Brief and regular trainings
- Enable MFA from the start
- Proper usage of OneDrive
- Standardized file storage
- Quarterly access review
- Document management process
At Cleartwo, we often introduce mini, friendly training sessions so that your people can get confident and, dare I say it, a little bit excited quite fast.
Common Issues and Solutions
Do not worry. We have all been through it.
Emails not syncing
It is usually a profile issue.
It is often resolved by rebuilding Outlook within a few minutes.
Users get confused by Teams
It’s the one common problem.
A clear channel structure and basic training are the solutions to most problems.
Licensing issues
It is usually caused by the old plans being not fully uninstalled.
A simple license assignment would do.
Security priorities you should consider
Security is not an option any longer.
Especially with the new changes coming with UK Cyber Essentials.
Microsoft 365 has the tools you need to stay on the right side of things.
According to UK government guidance, multi-factor authentication is now a base line expectation.
Cleartwo has the configurations set without locking users.
Understanding the actual price
Yes. The upgrade is costly.
But let’s examine the complete picture.
The older Office 365 plans may look to be cheaper.
However, when adding third-party security, file-sharing tools, and support time, the costs increase.
Microsoft 365 frequently replaces several tools.
That is where the hidden cost is.
Keeping the management ongoing has become manageable
After the upgrade, someone must constantly check everything.
User access, device management, updates.
This is where the managed support comes in.
Cleartwo has Microsoft 365 ongoing management that nothing slips.
You can find more details about our approach to Microsoft 365 management support.
Connecting with the rest of your digital framework
Microsoft 365, is the cloud service that delivers direct connection to the rest of your framework.
Web systems. CRM. Electronic commerce.
Cleartwo frequently helps companies to synchronise Microsoft 365 with IT support for businesses and also the broader digital marketing solutions.
This also involves AI-powered solutions for instance automated reporting and intelligent workflows.
Facts and figures for further reading
If you would like further information, you could read the following suggestions.
So what are the next steps
This is it.
Office 365 not just a task for IT, not only a chance to work better.
If you want help with defining your setup, planning email migration or getting feature of the products you already own, Cleartwo was made for you.
Easier start would be checking our managed IT support services or just get in touch for a friendly chat.
No tech gobbledygook, just a helping hand when you need it most. Give us a ring and we will work it out together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is upgrading Office 365 disruptive?
Usually not. With proper planning, most users are not even aware of the change.
Do I have to have Microsoft 365 Business Premium?
Not necessarily. It depends on your security and device requirements.
What is the email migration duration?
For smaller teams, it can often be just a few days, including testing.
Is Microsoft 365 appropriate for UK businesses?
Absolutely. When set up properly, it is compliant with both GDPR and Cyber Essentials.
Can Cleartwo handle this matter on our behalf?
Of course. From planning through to ongoing support, we have got you covered.
