Flexibility is more important than ever in today’s digitised world, with employees increasingly working from home, on-the-go or across multiple computer environments. That flexibility requires a cloud-based network, something that can securely store business files and be accessed on-the-go across multiple devices.
One of the best solutions for this need is Microsoft’s OneDrive for Business, a service for both Windows, Mac, and Mobile users that allows businesses to store, share, and access files from any device, anywhere in the world. When integrated with the Microsoft 365 suite of programs, OneDrive can provide huge advantages for businesses, moving away from expensive server solutions and increasing the productivity and flexibility of the company.
In this article, we take a look at why your business may need a solution like OneDrive, the benefits of using this cloud-based service and the best way to ensure the setup of OneDrive is done correctly.
How to decide if your business needs a cloud-based storage service
While cloud-based services can offer numerous benefits, it’s important to consider whether your business actually needs them before investing. There are many factors to consider, such as the size of your business, your industry, and your budget, and these factors may determine whether a solution like OneDrive suits your business needs.
Newer businesses may be able to get away with local storage solutions, not yet requiring the secure file storage and sharing capabilities that cloud services provide. You may also be an industry that has software specifically designed to handle certain types of data, like a legal firm, and may prefer most of your documentation to be based in a document management service specific for legal firms.
However, for most offices with multiple employees, cloud solutions like OneDrive for Business and SharePoint are a no-brainer. Instantly scalable and flexible, cloud-based storage services allow you to move away from physical file storage within your business, adding an additional layer of security to your business and reducing the maintenance costs of these expensive physical services. Being able to access these files from home, on-the-go or in the office will also make life easier for your employees, giving them the flexibility that they may need to maintain their work-life balance.
The benefits of OneDrive for Business
Ready to integrate a cloud-based storage service into your business? As you may have gathered, we here at Concord IT recommend OneDrive for Business. Instead of fumbling around multiple products, software solutions and file systems, OneDrive allows for seamless integration with the full Microsoft 365 suite of products, increasing productivity for both you and your employees.
But that’s not all. Check out just some of the additional benefits OneDrive can provide your business below:
Easy Collaboration: If OneDrive is configured to make use of SharePoint, multiple users can work on the same file simultaneously, and changes are automatically saved in real-time. This can help to streamline workflows and increase productivity, especially when using software like Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word.
File Sharing: OneDrive and SharePoint make it easy to share files with team members or external partners. Users can create links to specific files or folders, which can be shared via email or other communication methods including Microsoft Teams. This can be particularly useful for businesses that frequently collaborate with clients or contractors who are not a part of their organization.
Automatic Backup and Recovery: OneDrive provides automatic syncing of data from devices to the cloud. This provides a backup if your device becomes corrupted, lost or stolen. All your data will be still in the cloud able to be recovered to your new or repaired device.
Cost-effectiveness: OneDrive is a cost-effective solution for businesses that need to store and share files. It’s available as part of a Microsoft 365 subscription, which means you get access to a range of other productivity tools as well.
It is for these reasons and many others that makes OneDrive a leading cloud-based solution for businesses across the globe, giving companies the tools they need to increase productivity and security in the workplace. So, what’s the best way to integrate OneDrive into your companies IT solution? Getting a managed services provider to ensure setup is performed correctly first time.
How to get OneDrive set up for your business
Setting up OneDrive properly across multiple computers and devices can be a tricky process. From ensuring that the proper cybersecurity practices are in place to getting your Microsoft 365 accounts connected, setting up OneDrive can require a lot of time and effort that a lot of business owners simply do not have.
If you don’t have the technical expertise or resources to set up OneDrive for your business, as experienced IT providers, the team here at Concord IT can help you get started.
We can work with you to determine which MS 365 plan is right for your business, the amount of data you need to store on OneDrive, and the level of security you require. Our professional IT team can also offer post-set up support which covers any maintenance you may need including regular updates, troubleshooting and security enhancements.
Get your OneDrive for Business setup started by booking in a free consultation with our team today. For more information about this service or any other IT solution call us on (03) 7036 2470 or email hello@concordit.com.au.
