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Microsoft Business Applications 2026 for SMBs on Long Island

litechsol on December 16, 2025

If you’re a business on Long Island or in NYC looking to better understand, adopt, or improve your use of Microsoft business applications, this article is for you. We’ll explain exactly what these tools are, how they benefit local businesses like yours, and when it makes sense to outsource support. Whether you’re managing customer data, securing remote access, or automating day-to-day workflows, the right Microsoft applications can make your operations smoother and more secure.

At LI Tech Solutions, we help Long Island organizations maximize the benefits of Microsoft 365, Dynamics, Azure, and more without the confusion or risk of going it alone. Read on to learn how these tools work and how our team can help you achieve your goals.

Need help right away? Talk to a Microsoft-certified engineer at LI Tech Solutions today.

What Are Microsoft Business Applications?

Microsoft business applications are tools designed to help companies streamline operations, improve collaboration, and securely manage data. For businesses on Long Island and in NYC, these applications support day-to-day operations such as sales, customer management, HR, and finance.

The core suite includes:

Dynamics 365 for CRM and ERP
Power Platform (Power BI, Power Apps, Power Automate)
Microsoft Teams and SharePoint for communication and document sharing

The most widely used Microsoft business applications in NYC companies are those that help unify systems and automate routine tasks, reducing the need for manual processes.

Futuristic digital interface with CRM initials- Applications Core Suite includes.

Why Microsoft Business Applications Matter in 2026

In 2026, smart tools are no longer optional; they’re essential. Microsoft continues to lead with AI-powered features, such as Copilot, making tools like Dynamics and Teams smarter and more efficient. These tools now assist with writing emails, summarizing meetings, managing calendars, and generating insights without manual input, saving time and reducing repetitive work.

With more companies embracing hybrid work and distributed teams, the need for secure, scalable, and integrated cloud solutions is higher than ever. Microsoft’s cloud-first approach ensures teams can work from anywhere while maintaining productivity, security, and access to real-time data across departments.

Business Benefits for Long Island Organizations

For Long Island IT solutions seekers, Microsoft business applications offer real improvements:

Faster workflows: Automate tasks that slow your team down
Fewer errors: Integrated systems reduce data duplication and mistakes
Better collaboration: Teams, Outlook, and SharePoint keep staff connected even remotely
Improved decision-making: Access real-time data and reports to make smarter, faster business decisions
Stronger data security: Built-in compliance features and role-based access help safeguard sensitive information

Examples:

A nonprofit managing donations and outreach with Dynamics 365
A medical practice securing patient data while enabling remote collaboration
A small firm using Power BI to make smarter budgeting decisions
A nonprofit using our IT services for nonprofits to streamline donations and volunteer coordination through Microsoft tools.
A medical practice securing patient data with HIPAA-compliant IT services and Microsoft 365 collaboration tools.

Microsoft implementation digital graphic circled by icons- Five benefits of Microsoft Business Applications.

Common Microsoft Applications for Business Needs

Many businesses inquire about the best Microsoft applications to meet their specific business needs. The following applications are trusted across industries for streamlining operations and enabling smart decision-making. Here are the essentials:

Dynamics 365: Manage customer relationships, automate invoicing, streamline operations, and track field service performance in one unified platform.
Power BI & Power Automate: Create real-time dashboards and automate everyday processes like approvals, reports, and alerts without writing code.
Microsoft 365 (Outlook, Excel, Teams): Stay productive with familiar tools, enabling communication, scheduling, file sharing, document collaboration, and secure remote work.
Azure Active Directory: Centralize identity and access control, enforce security policies, and manage devices across your business network.

These tools are easy to adopt, integrate with existing systems, and scale as your business grows. Whether you’re a nonprofit, healthcare provider, or small enterprise, they offer flexibility and power to support your unique needs. We also provide Microsoft 365 setup and support to help you maximize the benefits of Outlook, Excel, and Teams.

Secure Identity and Access Management with Microsoft

Secure access to data is a priority for every Long Island organization. Microsoft Identity and Access Management services help protect sensitive business information by providing centralized control over who can access what, from where, and on which devices. These services manage user permissions, enforce multi-factor authentication (MFA), and ensure that only approved devices can connect to your systems.

With Azure Active Directory (Azure AD), businesses can confidently manage identity and access in hybrid or remote environments. Whether your staff is on-site or working remotely, Azure AD gives you the tools to secure every connection and user session without slowing down operations. We also offer Apple MDM solutions for businesses to manage mobile access and endpoint compliance.

When to Consider Outsourcing Microsoft IT Services

Outsourcing IT can help when your internal team is stretched thin or lacks specific Microsoft expertise. Signs it’s time to consider outsourcing IT services Long Island businesses should look for include:

Repeated system issues or downtime
Delays in adopting new tools or updates
Security concerns that aren’t being addressed

A trusted IT partner like LI Tech Solutions is here to help with licensing, system integration, Microsoft app support, and compliance readiness. Discover how our managed IT services can enhance your team’s capabilities and support your internal operations.

LI Tech Solutions offers services as a Microsoft business partner.

LI Tech Solutions: Your Microsoft Partner on Long Island

LI Tech Solutions provides Microsoft partner services that Long Island businesses can count on. We offer:

Personalized onboarding with real engineers
Microsoft 365 and Dynamics 365 migration and customization
Identity management, security configuration, and user support
HIPAA-compliant setups for healthcare, nonprofits, and other regulated industries

We’re based in Long Island and available for in-person support throughout the NYC metro area, including Queens, Brooklyn, and nearby business hubs. Our team provides on-site consultations, setup, and ongoing support, so you don’t have to rely on remote-only or outsourced help. As a local provider, we understand the specific needs and compliance standards of businesses operating in this region. We prioritize building long-term relationships with our clients through responsive, face-to-face service. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or learn more about how we can support your business.

Get Expert Support for Microsoft Business Applications

Looking to upgrade your systems or adopt Microsoft business applications for the first time? LI Tech Solutions can help you assess your current setup, select the best-fit tools, and ensure everything integrates smoothly with your business goals.

We believe in local, transparent support, not offshore call centers or vague pricing. You get guidance from professionals who understand Long Island businesses and their real-world IT needs. Ready to streamline your tech stack? Talk to a Microsoft-certified engineer today and see firsthand how trusted, local support from LI Tech Solutions can make a difference for your business.

Microsoft Business Applications vs Google Workspace: How LI Tech Can Help

litechsol on October 15, 2024

In the dynamic world of business technology, Long Island companies face an important decision: choosing between Microsoft Business Applications and Google Workspace. At LI Tech, we understand the importance of this choice for your operations. In this article, we discuss the pros and cons of each to help you select the best tools to drive your business forward.

Microsoft Business Applications: A Robust Suite for Diverse Needs

When you choose to implement business applications from Microsoft, you’re integrating a powerhouse of productivity into your operations. From Outlook and Excel to SharePoint, these applications work in unison to enhance efficiency and streamline your business processes. As a Microsoft Solutions Partner based on Long Island, NY, LI Tech specializes in tailoring Microsoft applications to meet your business’s specific needs, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance.

Callout 1: Screenshot of Microsoft apps- Microsoft Business Applications- 2 facts

Google Workspace: Streamlining Collaboration with Cloud Solutions

Google Workspace provides a cloud-native suite that prioritizes collaboration and flexibility. You get tools like Gmail, Docs, and Sheets that keep your team connected and productive, even when they aren’t located on-site. If you prioritize ease of use and quick deployment, Google Workspace Managed Services enables your team to collaborate effectively with minimal setup time.

Comparative Analysis: Tailoring the Right Tools for Your Long Island Business

Selecting the right digital tools is a strategic decision that can define the future of your operations on Long Island. We aim to help you understand the comparative advantages of Microsoft Business Applications and Google Workspace, aligning your technology with your specific business needs.

Integration and Customization With Microsoft Business Applications

Microsoft Business Applications excel in integrating capabilities. With tools like Dynamics 365, you can expect a seamless flow of data across different applications. This ultimately enhances the synchronization of your business processes. This is highly beneficial if your business operations involve complex project management tasks and require robust data analysis. LI Tech utilizes these systems as your solutions partner for Microsoft, ensuring they integrate seamlessly with your workflows.

Ease of Use and Accessibility

Google Workspace is designed for simplicity and ease of use. Its intuitive design and user-friendly interface mean you can hit the ground running without a steep learning curve. Google Workspace’s strength lies in its ability to provide immediate operational efficiency. This is an excellent option if you need flexibility and rapid deployment.

Callout 2: Screenshot of Google Workspace with app icons- Google Workspace- 2 facts

Choosing between Microsoft Business Applications and Google Workspace doesn’t have to be an overwhelming decision. Consider how each platform aligns with your operational needs and long-term business goals. LI Tech can guide you to the right choice, ensuring that your investment in digital tools yields increased productivity and smoother operations.

Business IT Support on Long Island, NY

LI Tech: Your Partner in Business Transformation

At LI Tech, we partner with you to understand your business’s unique challenges and opportunities. Whether you need Microsoft’s extensive capabilities or Google Workspace’s agile environment, we are here to support your journey and provide the technology that aligns with your business goals.

Contact us today to discover how we can integrate Microsoft Business Applications and Google Workspace Managed Services into your business operations, enhancing your productivity. We offer a free, no-commitment consultation.

Long Island Cloud-Managed Services Company Discusses Microsoft’s Vision for IAM and Cloud Security

litechsol on March 11, 2024

As the digital landscape unfurls across Long Island, NY, cloud-managed services have become the heartbeat of business innovation and security. In this dynamic field, the strategic implementation of Identity and Access Management (IAM) is the linchpin for safeguarding your digital frontiers. This article peels back the layers of IAM and cloud security, envisioning the future through the lens of Microsoft’s expertise.

You’ll gain invaluable insights into crafting an infallible security posture that protects your business and propels it into uncharted potential. Whether you’re at the helm of a burgeoning enterprise or anchoring a well-established corporation, the revelations here will recalibrate your approach to cloud security and set a new standard for operational excellence.

The Evolution of Cloud Security in Today’s Digital Ecosystem

As you steer your business through cyberspace, it’s the robust fortifications provided by cloud-managed services that stand between your valuable data and the ever-present cyber threats. Cloud security today has created an ecosystem where safety and accessibility coexist seamlessly.

Think of IAM as the discerning gatekeeper of your cloud resources—granting access to the right users at the right time for the right reasons. With each login attempt or access request, IAM ensures that every entry is authenticated, authorized, and audited.

Callout 1: quote from text about evoluction of cloud security in today's digital ecosystem

For businesses on Long Island, adopting cloud-managed services is no longer a futuristic concept but a present-day necessity. Whether orchestrating IT support for businesses or leveraging cloud IT services, the need for vigilant, responsive cloud security is undeniable. LI Tech Solutions on Long Island understands this pulse, offering cloud-based backup services and managed IT services pricing that align with your needs without compromising on security.

Data Protection in the Cloud: Challenges and Best Practices 2024

IAM: The Gatekeeper of Cloud IT Services

Businesses are anchoring their trust in cloud security, where IAM stands as the unwavering gatekeeper. It’s the strategic core that distinguishes friend from foe, granting access to digital resources with a meticulous verification process. For companies that harness cloud-based backup services or other cloud IT services, IAM is indispensable, ensuring every access point is both a conduit for productivity and a barrier against intrusions. However, navigating the complexities of IAM requires foresight and precision to avoid pitfalls. Some of the challenges your company could face without effective IAM strategies include:

Vulnerable Data: Without IAM, sensitive information can become accessible to unauthorized users, risking breaches and loss of trust.
Compliance Complications: Failing to meet regulatory requirements can lead to legal repercussions and business fines.
Inefficient Access Management: Without IAM, managing user access can be time-consuming and error-prone.
Single Point of Failure: Without robust IAM, a single compromised account can lead to widespread security incidents.

LI Tech’s expertise as a managed cloud service provider can guide you through the IAM maze with tailored solutions that resonate with your unique business rhythm.

Managed Cloud Services | Long Island, New York

Callout 2: IAM fingerprint entry 3D- IAM- gatekeeper of cloud IT services- 4 points listed

Predicting the Future: Microsoft’s Blueprint for Secure Cloud Environments

Microsoft casts its gaze to the horizon, where the future of cloud security is shaped by foresight, innovation, and an unyielding commitment to robust IAM solutions. Their vision: A fortress in the cloud, built on the bedrock of advanced IAM protocols, equipped to counter threats even before they manifest. Microsoft’s blueprint is an actionable roadmap that guides businesses on Long Island, NY, toward a secure, agile, and resilient digital ecosystem. Key aspects of Microsoft’s vision include:

Proactive Threat Detection: Utilizing AI and machine learning to identify and neutralize threats before they strike.
Seamless Integration: Ensuring that IAM solutions work harmoniously with existing cloud infrastructures.
Scalable Security: Developing security protocols that grow with your business, accommodating new users and technologies effortlessly.
Universal Accessibility: Balancing stringent security with user-friendly access across multiple devices and platforms.

Microsoft Business Applications 2026 for SMBs on Long Island

Callout 3: Futuristic cyber security- Microsoft's blueprint for secure cloud environments- vision descriptions

The Impact of Cloud-Managed Services on Local Businesses

The surge of cloud-managed services on Long Island, NY, reflects an evolution in business strategy. By embracing these services, companies gain a robust IAM platform, essential for protecting their digital resources while fostering innovation and operational efficiency. This shift isn’t just about adopting new technologies. It’s about rethinking how businesses manage and secure their most valuable assets in the cloud.

Cloud-Based Backup Services: Your Safety Net in a Digital World

The resilience of a business lies in its ability to be prepared for the unexpected. Cloud-based backup services are critical to a comprehensive IAM and cloud security strategy, safeguarding against data loss and ensuring business continuity. Cloud-based backup services are necessary for a number of reasons, including:

Data Redundancy: Ensures critical business data is duplicated and stored securely off-site, providing a fallback in the event of on-site system failures.
Disaster Recovery: Enables swift data restoration, minimizing downtime and operational disruptions after cyber incidents or natural disasters.
Version Control: Maintains historical versions of documents, allowing businesses to revert to previous data states when needed.
Regulatory Compliance: Helps businesses meet legal requirements for data protection and privacy by maintaining secure and auditable data backups.

By integrating these backup services, businesses on Long Island, NY, fortify their defenses, ensuring that their operations can withstand and quickly recover from disruptions.

Callout 4: Server room with web hosting infrastructure- cloud-based backup services - 4 reasons for IAM cloud security

Streamlining Costs With Managed IT Services Pricing

Adopting managed IT services is a strategic move for Long Island businesses seeking to balance costs and technological advancement. This approach can offer your company a predictable pricing model that aligns IT expenditures with your actual business growth. By leveraging services like these, companies can then allocate their financial resources efficiently. That way, they can ensure they only pay for the IT support they need. This cost-effective strategy enables businesses to optimize their budgets while maintaining access to cutting-edge technology.

AI as a Service: The Competitive Edge With Our Cloud-Managed Services

AI as a service empowers companies with sophisticated analytics and automation capabilities. This innovative service democratizes access to artificial intelligence, once a resource available only to companies with deep pockets and advanced R&D departments. Some of the benefits of integrating AI into your business operations come in the form of:

Enhanced Decision-Making: AI analyzes vast amounts of data to uncover insights, driving smarter business decisions.
Automated Customer Interactions: AI-driven chatbots offer responsive customer service, enhancing the overall user experience.
Operational Efficiency: Streamlines routine tasks, allowing staff to focus on high-value activities.
Predictive Analytics: Forecasts trends and behaviors, giving businesses a proactive edge in the market.

By incorporating AI-driven security protocols into our cloud-managed services, we enhance threat detection and response times, ensuring your business remains agile and robust against cyber challenges.

AI vs. Process Automation: What Your Business Actually Needs

Callout 5- man using futuristic digital display to use AI tools- AI as a service- 4 benefits

The Role of a Cloud-Managed Service Provider in Business Transformation

A cloud-managed services provider like LI Tech plays a pivotal role in guiding businesses through their digital transformation journeys. These types of providers deliver expertise in cloud consulting and IT services, facilitating seamless transitions to cloud infrastructure. We can ensure the cloud solutions we provide are tailored to each business’s unique needs, offering scalability, security, and support. The partnership with a managed provider is central to navigating the complexities of cloud adoption, enabling businesses to innovate and thrive.

Business Transformation Consultant’s Guide: Microsoft vs Google Workspace on Long Island, NY

Secure Your Enterprise’s Future With IAM-Integrated Cloud-Managed Services

At LI Tech Solutions, your unique security needs are the blueprint for our cloud-managed services. In the heart of Long Island and NYC, we stand as a pillar of innovation, dedicated to fortifying your business against the challenges of the digital age. We’re committed to delivering robust cloud solutions that are built on the foresight of IAM intelligence. Connect with us and embark on a journey to a resilient, forward-thinking digital infrastructure that propels your business. Contact us today.

Business Transformation Consultant’s Guide: Microsoft vs Google Workspace on Long Island, NY

litechsol on February 22, 2024

In the bustling landscape of Long Island, NY, where business transformation consultants thrive on innovation, the tools you employ can make all the difference. At LI Tech, we understand the significance of choosing the right digital workspace. Between Microsoft and Google Workspace, each offers a suite of applications and tools designed to streamline your operations and foster collaboration. This article will compare the two, focusing on their core features, integrations, user experience, and how they can optimize your business processes. As a Long Island business transformation consultant, LI Tech can assist you in choosing what works best for your business.

Decoding Microsoft Business Applications with a Business Transformation Consultant

In the competitive arena of business transformation, having the right tools is pivotal. Microsoft Business Applications stand at the forefront, offering a suite that’s both diverse and integrated to elevate your productivity to new heights.

Seamless Integration: Microsoft’s suite ensures that applications like Outlook, Excel, and SharePoint work together harmoniously, allowing for a streamlined workflow that connects every facet of your business.
Advanced Analytics: With tools like Power BI, go into the analytics of your business processes to make informed decisions that propel your growth.
Customization: Dynamics 365 allows for unprecedented customization, tailoring solutions to fit the unique processes of your business while ensuring that the software adapts to you and not the other way around.

Microsoft Workspace is a comprehensive ecosystem designed to bring out the best in your business operations.

Business IT Support on Long Island, NY

Callout 1: Microsoft's Business Applications- 3 benefits. Google Workspace Support- 2 benefits

Google Workspace Support: Simplifying Collaboration with Cloud-Native Solutions

When it comes to enhancing team dynamics and driving business forward, Google Workspace emerges as a frontrunner. So, what is Google Workspace?

Integrated Communication: Gmail and Google Meet erase the distances, providing seamless communication channels that keep teams connected—whether they’re across the room or across the globe.
Streamlined Management: Google Drive offers a centralized repository for all your documents, simplifying file management and accessibility with robust search functionalities and organized sharing options.

For a business transformation consultant looking to streamline operations and bolster collaboration, Google Workspace is a compelling choice.

Microsoft Teams vs Google Workspace: Evaluating Communication and Collaboration

In the bustling market of Long Island enterprises, the choice between Microsoft Teams and Google Workspace can pivot a company’s trajectory in communication and collaboration. Microsoft Teams is the powerhouse for integrated communication. It offers extensive features for video conferencing, file sharing, and chatting, all within a single application that is seamlessly connected to the Office 365 suite. It’s built for businesses that require robust, enterprise-level collaboration tools that Microsoft traditionally excels in.

On the flip side, Google Workspace shines with its simplicity and user-friendly interface, making it a go-to for teams prioritizing ease of use and quick adoption. While Teams is feature-rich, Google Workspace attracts with its straightforward, no-frills approach to team communication, making it a contender for businesses that value minimalism and speed.

Long Island Cloud-Managed Services Company Discusses Microsoft’s Vision for IAM and Cloud Security

Callout 2: Group of people working at tables with computers and devices- Microsoft Teams vs Google Workspace- Evaluating communications and collaboration

Analyzing Cost-Effectiveness and Scalability for Long Island Enterprises

For a business transformation consultant on Long Island, NY, evaluating the cost-effectiveness and scalability of digital tools is fundamental. Microsoft’s suite gives a granular level of scalability and control to businesses that anticipate they will have rapid growth and complex needs. Its pricing model gives options for companies who need a comprehensive set of tools and integrations.

On the other hand, Google Workspace presents a more straightforward scalability option with a pricing strategy that appeals more to startups and small businesses looking for cost efficiency without the need for extensive customization. Both of these platforms offer different tiers and plans to make sure that businesses of all sizes find an option that aligns with their budget and growth expectations without compromising on quality and productivity.

Best Practices for Optimizing Your IT Solutions on Long Island, NY

A Business Transformation Consultant Can Empower Your Business with the Right Tools – LI Tech Solutions

At LI Tech Solutions, we understand the intricacies of business transformation in the digital age, particularly for dynamic enterprises on Long Island, NY. As your dedicated business transformation consultant, we stand ready to guide you through the process of selecting the right digital workspace. We are committed to empowering your business with solutions that help enhance productivity while aligning with your growth trajectory. Contact us for a business transformation consultant to elevate your enterprise’s performance to its peak potential.

The Future of Microsoft AI Services: Trends and Predictions for Businesses on Long Island

litechsol on December 18, 2023

It’s hard to overstate AI’s current impact on the business sector. Over half of today’s businesses use AI for one or both of their most popular applications: enhancing customer service and supporting cybersecurity and fraud management efforts. While many business leaders remain concerned about AI’s possible impact on their future success, its benefits are powerful and undeniable. At LI TECH, we think the right approach to AI implementation is proactive. We don’t recommend waiting until the last minute to get on board with trends that give you a competitive edge. We also don’t recommend becoming such an early adopter that you become a cautionary tale to your competitors. Our IT outsource services can help you add AI services to your toolbox in strategic and effective ways.

Callout 1: AI concept with businessman- Quote from text about business use of artificial intelligence

As a top provider of outsourced IT services on Long Island, NYC, LI TECH can handle all of your business’s managed tech needs. Let us handle your cloud infrastructure, data protection, training needs, Microsoft AI services, and more. In this article, we share a few trends and predictions about how Long Island and NYC businesses will utilize Microsoft AI services.

Microsoft AI Services Will Continue to Revolutionize the World of Customer Service

Today’s customers expect lightning-fast answers to their questions. However, human customer service agents can only help one customer at a time. In contrast, an AI chatbot can assist multiple customers simultaneously, at any time of day or night. Moreover, advances in natural language processing have unlocked the potential for highly natural, satisfying conversations with AI customer service tools.

One advantage of AI as a service (AIaaS) is that it enables you to adopt AI solutions in a low-risk, low-cost manner. When you partner with LI Tech, you’ll discover how Microsoft AI services can improve your customer experience incrementally.

AI for Business: Top Trends Transforming Operations in 2025

Callout 2: Advantage of AI as a service (AIaaS) for customer service

Microsoft AI Outsource Services Can Streamline Your Organization’s Internal Processes

You can enjoy a smoother and more efficient workflow management experience with Microsoft AI services. AI tools can automatically assign tasks, streamline feedback and approval processes, and conduct data-driven market research. Instead of burdening human employees with mindless tasks like data entry or routine reporting, you can allocate much of your organization’s “busy work” to AI tools.

While shifting this work from humans to AI programs might sound daunting, it doesn’t have to be. LI TECH helps business leaders integrate Microsoft AI services into their organizations’ daily tasks – without having to become tech experts on the fly.

Business Transformation Consultant’s Guide: Microsoft vs Google Workspace on Long Island, NY

Callout 3: Four ways Microsoft AI services streamline organization's internal processes

Microsoft AI Services Can Enhance Your Cybersecurity Protocols

The world of cybersecurity is constantly evolving, and it’s essential to stay one step ahead of emerging threats. Microsoft AI services can add one more tool to your cybersecurity toolbox. Microsoft’s cutting-edge AI solutions can help you detect threats faster, speed up your response cycle, and gain the upper hand over cyber criminals.

Understanding IAM in the Modern Cybersecurity Landscape: Challenges and Solutions

Callout 4: 3D rendering humanoid robot working on glass laptop- 3 ways AI solutions work for cybersecurity

Why LI TECH’s IT Outsource Services Make Sense for All of Your Microsoft AI Needs on Long Island, NY

At LI TECH, we’re not just a Microsoft AI services provider. We can also handle your hardware and software needs, as well as provide outsourced IT consulting, networking, and cybersecurity services, and other IT solutions to help your business thrive. As an official Microsoft partner, we know how to engineer and manage the Windows ecosystem, including desktops, servers, and support infrastructure.

Your business can benefit from our in-depth knowledge of Microsoft without having to hire a full-time IT support team. Our Long Island, NYC team will support you in implementing Microsoft AI solutions, from adoption to training to ongoing support.

Interested in making the most of what Microsoft AI services can offer? Want to team up with LI TECH for the IT outsource services you need? Contact us today to begin with a complimentary consultation and technology assessment.

And Breathe… the “file too large to send” Problem Is Over

litechsol on September 18, 2023

Microsoft finally has a fix for one of the oldest and most frustrating problems in Outlook – when the file you’re trying to send is too big. Here’s what’s changing in the next few weeks and how it affects you.

Windows 11 Optional Update: Why It’s Better to Wait

litechsol on August 7, 2023

Microsoft has just announced an option for people to trial new features before their general release in Windows 11. This isn’t about fixes to security flaws – everyone gets those at the same time. This is an opportunity for businesses to jump the queue to receive new features and updates first. Sound exciting? Yes! Worth the risk? Not quite. Our …
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Microsoft 365 Makes Multi-Factor Authentication Easier

litechsol on July 3, 2023

Microsoft is planning to enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) directly in its Outlook app for many 365 business users.

Microsoft Hints at Some Exciting Windows 12 Developments

litechsol on June 6, 2023

Windows 11 still feels like a new toy, yet we’ve already heard speculation about Windows 12 arriving as soon as next year. It’s all we can think about!

7 Pro Tips for Microsoft 365

litechsol on March 15, 2023

Microsoft 365 is the most popular of all major office productivity software. It has 48.8% of the global market share, just edging out Google’s apps, by a couple of percentage points.

It’s used by individuals, small & mid-sized businesses, and larger enterprise organizations. It does everything a modern office needs. Including from word processing and spreadsheet work to cloud storage and video conferencing.

Because Microsoft 365 is such a vast platform, with over 20 apps in total, it can be easy to miss helpful features. People tend to stick with what’s familiar. But this often causes them to miss out on time and money-saving bonuses in M365, beyond the core apps.

Some of the many apps you get, depending on your subscription plan, include:

Excel
Word
Powerpoint
Outlook
To Do
OneDrive
Teams
Forms
Defender
SharePoint
Yammer
Lists
Access
Bookings
Intune
Planner
Visio
And more

Want to get more value from your subscription? We’ll go through some of the most helpful apps and features in Microsoft 365 that you may now know about.

Get More Out of M365 With These Tips

1. Skip the Menu Bar by Using Search to Find Functions

We’ve all been there at one time or another. You know there is a way to do something in an app, but you can’t find it in the menu. For example, trying to change your margins in Microsoft Word to give you more space on the page.

You can stop wasting time clicking through one tab after another, and instead, use the search box at the top. It’s not just for searching for help topics. You can use a search to quickly jump to settings like margins, page orientation, and many more.

2. Leverage the Free Stock Images, Icons & Videos

Most businesses need to have nice-looking images from time to time. They’re used on websites, brochures, and presentations. But finding good business images can be expensive.

You can’t just do a Google search to find them because they may be copyrighted. You need to have images that you can use commercially without any problems.

Inside Word, Excel, and PowerPoint you have a treasure trove of images. These are free to use in your marketing. You also have videos, icons, and even 3D models, all there for the picking.

Find them by going to Insert > Pictures > Stock Images

Use the tab at the top to tab between the different media. Then, click to insert it directly into your document, spreadsheet, or presentation.

3. Save Time by Using Data Types in Excel

Researching things like the population of a city or the nutrition value of a new menu can take days. Did you know that inside Excel you have access to several databases?

You can leverage facts and figures stored inside Excel’s “data types.” They include topics on everything from chemistry to yoga poses. Use data types to populate tons of data in seconds for various topics.

Start by adding your list (e.g., a list of menu items)
Highlight your list.
Then, click the Data tab.
In the Data Types window, choose the type of data it is (e.g., Food, Plant, etc.).

Next, click the small database icon that appears at the top of the list.
Choose the type of data you want.
The details will populate into the next open column on the right for each list item.

4. Save Time on Customer Surveys with Microsoft Forms

Microsoft Forms is one of the best-kept secrets of M365. This cloud-based survey and form builder makes it simple to send out surveys to people. You get the results back as soon as they click “submit” on the cloud-based form.

You can even download the results directly to Excel. Using them for graphing or uploading them into a software template.

5. Use PPT’s Presenter Coach to Improve Your Skills

Do you worry when it comes time to give a presentation to clients or your own team? Not everyone feels comfortable about public speaking, even if it’s virtual.

PowerPoint can help with a handy AI-powered feature called Presenter Coach. Turn this coach on when practicing your presentation. It will give you tips on your pacing, use of filler words (e.g., umm), repetitive language, and much more!

Look for the “Rehearse with Coach” option on the Slide Show menu.

6. Save Recurring Email Text in Outlook’s Quick Parts

Do you have certain emails you send to customers that have the same paragraphs of text in them? For example, it might be directions to your building or how to contact support.

Stop retyping the same info every time. Outlook has a feature called Quick Parts that saves and then inserts blocks of text into emails.

Create a Quick Part by highlighting the text to save in an email.
On the Insert Menu, click Quick Parts.
Save Quick Part.

When ready to insert that text into another email, just use the same menu. Then click to insert the Quick Part.

7. Create a Keyboard Shortcut to Paste as Unformatted Text

Keyboard shortcuts are great for saving time. But there’s not always one there when you need it. One handy keyboard shortcut to add for MS Word is to paste as text only. This method removes any formatting that copied text might have had so your document isn’t messed up.

Here’s how to make a keyboard shortcut for this:

In Word, click File> Options.
Click Customize Ribbon.
At the bottom of the panel, next to Keyboard shortcuts, click Customize.
Scroll in the left pane to All Commands.
Look for “PasteTextOnly”
Type your keyboard command, then click Assign.

Need Help Optimizing Microsoft 365?

Microsoft 365 has many security-enhancing, time-saving, and dollar-saving features. Learn how else we can help by scheduling a consultation today.

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Featured Image Credit

This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.