For small businesses and large enterprises in the modern workplace, productivity tools are essential to the management and performance of daily business operations. Cloud-based workplace solutions are quickly becoming the new normal, allowing employees to work from any location and at the times that best suit them.
Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace are the most common productivity suites on the market. However, they appear to be very similar and knowing their differences can help you make more informed choices when investing in workplace solutions.
An overview of Microsoft 365
Microsoft 365 (M365 or Microsoft Office 365) is a comprehensive bundle of cloud-based products organizations can use to streamline workflows, keep employees engaged, and achieve business objectives. Accessible through the Internet and equipped with 1TB of cloud storage, M365’s tools cater to all areas of your business, ensuring you have the right program available for any workplace task.
Each of Microsoft’s tools supports co-authoring functions, meaning any number of authorized personnel can simultaneously work on projects. If one person makes changes to a document, it will automatically save and become viewable by everyone with access.
This is critical for reducing the chances of spreading misinformation or working on outdated assignments that do not adequately support your business’ objectives.
The Microsoft 365 suite comes equipped with the following productivity apps:
- SharePoint: An internal content management system.
- OneDrive: Cloud-based storage space for data.
- Excel: A program used for drafting and storing spreadsheets.
- Word: A program used for writing documents.
- PowerPoint: A program used for creating presentations.
- Exchange Online: A business email and communication hub.
- Microsoft Teams: A program leveraging team channels, instant messaging (individually and in groups), file sharing, video conferencing, etc.
- Outlook: An email program equipped with a calendar for scheduling events.
Even when using desktop versions of its apps, M365 is a trusted solution to workplace productivity and efficiency. Used by more than 700,000 companies in the United States, Microsoft 365 is an all-purpose toolbox suitable for Windows and iOS systems.
No matter your business’ size, your niche, or your technical infrastructure, M365 can slot into your business’ daily processes with minimal disruption—essential for a satisfied employee base and organizations on the cusp of growth.
An overview of Google Workspace
Similar to M365, Google Workspace is a productivity suite of cloud-based work solutions. A rebranding of G Suite, Workspace gives its users the ability to create, collaborate, and work on projects from any device. It also supports various communicative functions such as email and real-time messaging for more open communication and a closer-knit workforce.
The desktop apps available in Google Workspace are:
- Google Slides: Presentation software.
- Google Docs: Document creation software.
- Google Sheets: Spreadsheet software.
- Google Chat: An instant-messaging hub.
- Google Drive: Cloud-based storage.
- Gmail: An email server that integrates with other applications for better time and project management.
- Google Forms: A program for creating questionnaires and surveys.
The workplace is a culmination of many tasks, each of them needing its own solutions and procedures. No matter if a business operates with a hybrid workforce or is entirely remote, Google Workspace provides organizations with the equipment and software they need to create and maintain a professional workplace.
Google Workspace vs. Microsoft 365: what are the differences?
It can be easy to mistake Google Workspace and M365 for being mirror images of each other—they both strive for greater workplace productivity and business agility. However, there are differences between them, and you must be aware of these discrepancies before you decide to invest in a solution.
The two main differences between the productivity suites are:
Cybersecurity
While Google Workspace’s cybersecurity programs can support your business’ digital security, they are not as solid as Microsoft’s. Microsoft is a leading force in cyber safety, implementing innovative solutions into M365 to protect your organization’s network from external and internal threats.
Microsoft’s security programs include:
- Data Loss Prevention (DLP): Evaluates and protects your company’s data.
- Advanced Threat Protection: Monitors and responds to threats interacting with your IT infrastructure.
- Microsoft Intune: Manages your organization’s devices with customizable policies.
- Azure Active Directory: Monitors and detects suspicious activity within your systems.
Cybersecurity should be a top priority for your company, and you need to enlist the best programs to keep you, your staff, and your customers’ data safe 24/7/365. Microsoft gives businesses optimized protection for their IT infrastructure, for the present and the future.
Subscriptions
Google Workspace and M365 are offered in cost-effective subscription bundles for your convenience. However, the difference lies in the range of plans. There are only four Google Workspace plans available.
While this is not necessarily a cause for concern, businesses are constantly evolving, and the autonomy Microsoft gives you over their productivity suite will never put you at a disadvantage.
Microsoft 365 plans include:
- Microsoft 365 Business Basic
- Microsoft 365 Apps for Business
- Microsoft 365 Business Standard
- Microsoft 365 Business Premium
- Microsoft 365 E3
- Microsoft 365 E5
- Microsoft 365 F3
Microsoft also allows customers to choose individual solutions for their business’ needs. This is a significant benefit for your organization as you will have peace of mind knowing your company’s productivity tools will always be relevant.
Implement Microsoft 365 into your business' processes
While Google Workspace can handle a business’ daily procedures and staff, you should be adopting technical solutions to innovate your current processes and prepare your company for future markets.
Microsoft 365 leverages the latest workplace technology and cybersecurity best practices for enterprises looking to grow their competitive edge.
The Microsoft 365 consultants at BCS365 are experts in Microsoft’s technology and business practices. Talk to the team today and enlist consultancy services that help you efficiently migrate from Google Workspace to Microsoft 365.