Microsoft 365
Cloud-based Essentials for Small Businesses
Microsoft 365
At Houston Technology, we help organisations select and implement the Microsoft 365 plan that best fits their needs. From essential online tools to full desktop apps and advanced security, Microsoft 365 empowers your team to work smarter, collaborate seamlessly, and stay protected.
But choosing a plan isn’t just about software, it’s about how work itself has changed.
How the workplace has transformed
-
Cloud Technologies and Collaboration
Cloud platforms like Microsoft 365 have moved essential tools into the cloud, enabling real-time collaboration across devices and locations. Work now happens anywhere, not just in the office. -
Automation and Digital Workflows
Routine tasks are increasingly automated with tools like Power Automate and Forms, reducing admin time and freeing people to focus on meaningful work. -
Flexible and Hybrid Working Models
Hybrid work has become the new normal. Teams rely on video conferencing, cloud apps, and virtual workspaces to stay connected and productive from multiple locations. -
Social and Economic Shifts
Employees want purpose, balance, and flexibility. Organisations are responding with more trust-based management, digital-first operations, and a stronger focus on wellbeing.
The Most Common Microsoft 365 Plans
There are many Microsoft 365 options available, but these three are the most common for SMBs:
Our Recommendation
At Houston Technology, we recommend Microsoft 365 Business Premium for most organisations because it offers stronger security controls to protect against cyber threats, reduces risk and long-term costs, and does all this without adding complexity for your team, keeping everyone productive while IT overhead stays low.
Basic
Cloud-based essentials for small businesses
Suitable for online work, without desktop apps or advanced security
Includes:
Web and mobile versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint
50 GB email mailbox with custom domain (Exchange)
Microsoft Teams for meetings and chat
SharePoint for file sharing
1 TB OneDrive cloud storage per user
Business standard
Full productivity tools with email and file sharing
Suitable for businesses that need full desktop apps and robust collaboration tools
Includes:
Full desktop versions of Office apps included from Business Basic
Outlook for desktop email
More advanced collaboration via Teams and SharePoint
Identity, access and user management across 300 users
Business premium
All-in-one solution with advanced security
Suitable for businesses requiring strong security, device control, and compliance
Includes:
Everything in Business Standard
Microsoft Intune for device management
Azure Information Protection for data security
Conditional Access for sensitive data
Microsoft Defender for cyber threat protection