Do Microsoft 365 Business Plans Include Desktop Apps?

If you're a small business owner evaluating software solutions for your team, you may be wondering if Microsoft 365 Business Plans include desktop applications. Yes, certain plans offer access to these applications alongside their online versions, which is crucial for understanding which options best fit your business's needs.

What Microsoft 365 Business Plans are available?

Microsoft offers several Business Plans under the Microsoft 365 umbrella, designed primarily for small to medium-sized businesses. The key plans include:

• Microsoft 365 Business Basic: This plan focuses on web-based applications and services. It includes essential tools but does not provide desktop versions of Office applications.

• Microsoft 365 Business Standard: This plan includes both web and desktop versions of essential Office applications, such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, alongside other services like Exchange and SharePoint.

• Microsoft 365 Business Premium: This plan encompasses everything in Business Standard and adds advanced security features and device management capabilities. It also includes desktop applications.

• Microsoft 365 Apps for Business: Specifically focused on desktop applications, this plan provides access to Office apps without the additional services included in the other plans.

Which desktop applications are included?

The desktop applications included in Microsoft 365 Business Plans vary by plan. Here’s a breakdown:

• Business Basic: No desktop applications are included in this plan.

• Business Standard: This plan offers access to the full suite of desktop applications, including: - Word - Excel - PowerPoint - Outlook - OneNote - Publisher (PC only) - Access (PC only)

• Business Premium: This plan includes everything in Business Standard, providing access to all the desktop applications mentioned above.

• Apps for Business: Offers the same desktop applications as Business Standard without additional services.

For example, if you choose Business Standard, your team can install Word on their laptops and work offline, while also having access to the same documents stored in the cloud.

How do desktop apps compare to online versions?

Desktop applications and their online counterparts serve similar functions but have distinct differences. Here’s how they compare:

• Functionality: Desktop applications typically offer a wider range of features compared to online versions. Advanced formatting options in Word or complex data analysis in Excel are often more comprehensive in the desktop app.

• Performance: Desktop applications generally run faster since they are installed locally on your device. Online versions may experience latency depending on your internet connection.

• Offline Access: Desktop applications allow you to work without an internet connection, which is vital if your team is in areas with unreliable internet. Online versions require connectivity to access and edit documents.

• Collaboration: Online versions excel in real-time collaboration, allowing multiple users to edit documents simultaneously. While desktop versions can also support collaboration, you must save and share files manually, which can lead to version control issues.

Who should choose desktop applications?

Choosing desktop applications can be particularly beneficial for businesses that:

• Operate in areas with limited or unreliable internet connectivity, ensuring your team can work without interruptions.
• Require advanced features for tasks such as data analysis, graphic design, or extensive document formatting that may not be fully supported in online versions.
• Have a team that prefers working offline or needs to access applications while traveling.

For example, a design team might benefit from using the desktop version of Publisher for creating marketing materials that require detailed graphics and templates.

What if I need more help?

If you have further questions about Microsoft 365 or need assistance with setup and support, consider the following resources:

• Visit the official Microsoft support page for guidance on installation and troubleshooting.
• Engage with Microsoft community forums, where you can ask questions and share experiences with other users.
• Contact your Microsoft account representative or a local IT consultant for personalized support.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Microsoft 365 Business Plan depends on your team's specific needs regarding desktop applications. If having those applications is essential for your operations, consider either the Business Standard or Business Premium plan. Assess your requirements and consult available resources to ensure you make the best decision for your business.