8 Must-Have Microsoft 365 Customisations for Your Business

Posted on 04/06/202504/06/2025 by b2medeveloper

Running an SMB in Queensland comes with no shortage of challenges. From juggling limited resources to keeping up with growing cyber threats, staying competitive in a digital-first world means working smarter – not harder.

This is where Microsoft 365 provides a competitive advantage. While many businesses use it for the basics (email, documents, spreadsheets), few realise just how customisable the platform is. With a few simple tweaks, you can transform Microsoft 365 into a tailored productivity engine that supports the way your business works.

These customisations have the potential to unlock incredible value. And they aren’t just for tech experts. Most can be implemented with minimal effort, guided setup, or built-in features, in just a few clicks – no need for expensive technical expertise or ongoing maintenance! Whether you want to streamline processes, strengthen security or improve how your team collaborates, the tools are already at your fingertips.

Let’s discuss eight practical Microsoft 365 customisations that can help your business get more from your investment, starting today.

One thing is clear: a modern workplace needs modern tools. And customising Microsoft 365 helps your business operate more efficiently, and stay protected.

1. Implement branded email signatures and templates

First impressions count. For many businesses, that starts with an email. A consistent, professional email signature reinforces your brand, builds trust and ensures key contact information is always easy to find.

With Microsoft 365, you can set up branded signatures in Outlook, complete with your logo, contact details and links, so your team stays on-brand, every time.

Outlook templates are another easy win. Save time on repeated emails like quotes or confirmations by creating reusable templates. It’s a simple way to boost professionalism and productivity without having to rewrite the same messaging.

2. Automate onboarding workflows

Welcoming a new team member shouldn’t create a mountain of manual tasks. With Power Automate in Microsoft 365, you can create simple onboarding workflows that trigger automatically – like sending newcomers welcome emails, setting up their accounts and assigning training tasks.

Automation simplifies new employee set up, saves time, ensures nothing gets missed and delivers a smoother, more professional experience for your new team members. Plus, once it’s set up, it runs in the background. Meaning your team can focus less on admin, and have more time for work that makes a difference.

3. Share files securely with OneDrive & SharePoint

Collaboration is essential, and maintaining control over your files is just as important. With OneDrive and SharePoint, you can customise file permissions – choosing who can view, edit or download files, or even set expiration dates for shared links.

These simple settings help protect sensitive information, while making collaboration easy. Whether you’re working with clients, contractors or remote staff, secure sharing ensures the right people have access at the right time, without compromising your data or relying on third-party tools.

4. Turn Microsoft Teams into your digital HQ

Microsoft Teams can be more than just a messaging app – it can be the central hub for your business. Consider customising it in the following ways:

Create custom channels – for departments, projects or clients to keep conversations organised and easy to find.
Integrate Microsoft Planner – to assign and track tasks directly in Teams.
Use Microsoft Forms – for quick polls, surveys or check-ins.
Connect third-party apps – to keep all your tools in one place.

With a well-structured Teams setup, your staff can collaborate, plan and stay aligned, no matter where they’re working.

5. Strengthen security with MFA and conditional access policies

Protect your business from cyber threats by enabling Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) in Microsoft 365. MFA adds an extra verification step, making it harder for hackers to access accounts, even if passwords are compromised. These settings significantly reduce the risk of phishing attacks and data breaches.

6. Visualise your data with custom Power BI dashboards

Make smarter decisions by turning your Microsoft 365 data into easy-to-understand visuals using Power BI – no data team required. Custom dashboards can show key business insights like sales trends, customer feedback or marketing ROI in real time.

Power BI can integrate seamlessly with your existing tools, helping you track performance and spot opportunities quickly. With intuitive charts and reports, your team stays informed and empowered to act on data, not guesswork.

7. Streamline marketing and admin with email automation

Did you know you can use Power Automate and Outlook rules to reduce repetitive email work? Set up auto-responders for form submissions, automatic responses for common enquiries, schedule follow-up emails or route leads to the right team member, without the manual effort.

These automations are particularly valuable in streamlining marketing and admin tasks, freeing up your teams to focus on higher-value work. With simple setups that require little technical know-how, you can improve response times, ensure consistency and keep your customer communication flowing smoothly.

8. Simplify client scheduling with Microsoft Bookings

Make booking appointments effortless for your clients with Microsoft Bookings – a professional, self-service scheduling tool. Clients can view available times and book meetings online, without the back-and-forth emails.

Bookings can integrates with your Microsoft 365 calendar to automatically update availability and send reminders (a useful way to also reduce no-shows and scheduling conflicts). This simple customisation enhances the customer experience, saves admin and helps your business run more smoothly.

Customising Microsoft 365 unlocks powerful opportunities to work smarter, protect your business and retain a professional edge – without heavy IT overheads. Small changes can make a big difference in how your team collaborates, works and achieves success every day.

Ready to get more from Microsoft 365? Gain support with Microsoft 365 Services and discover how simple customisations can transform your business.

Everything You Need To Know About Microsoft 365 Managed Services

Posted on 13/03/202522/04/2025 by aditsdev

Did you know that Microsoft 365 is used by over 3.7 million companies worldwide? Its incredible suite of tools has become the backbone of modern businesses, making teamwork easier, strengthening security, and keeping productivity high. But with so many features packed in, it’s easy for businesses to miss out on its full potential.

Whether you’re new to Microsoft 365 or looking to optimise your setup, understanding its capabilities can transform the way you work. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Microsoft 365 managed services—from its key features to the benefits it brings to your business.

What is Microsoft 365?

Microsoft 365 is a powerful set of tools that keep businesses productive and connected across all aspects of their operations. With its cloud-based setup, it makes collaborating in real-time easier, whether you’re working on documents, running meetings or managing emails.

With built-in security features, the 365 platform also ensures sensitive data, communications and documents stay secure and protected while remaining easily accessible. In short, Microsoft 365 has all the essentials businesses need to stay organised and remain competitive in today’s fast-paced world.

Discover the key Microsoft 365 services

Microsoft 365 managed services bring everything you need to run your business smoothly, all in one place. Let’s break down what’s inside and how it can help streamline your operations.

1. The core tools: Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint

These tools are the pillar of everyday business tasks, and thanks to the cloud, they’ve become even more powerful. For instance, imagine working on a Word document where everyone can edit and add comments at the same time, eliminating the need for back-and-forth emails.

Excel works the same way, with teams able to update financial data on the fly, making meetings more productive. PowerPoint also lets colleagues collaborate on presentations together, making sure everything stays aligned and up to date. Having these features can save your business time, improve accuracy, and keep teams on the same page.

2. Microsoft Teams: Connecting your team

Microsoft Teams is the ultimate collaboration tool within Microsoft 365, bringing everything your team needs into one place. It combines chat, video calls, file sharing and project collaboration. For example, a marketing team could have a dedicated channel for a campaign where they can brainstorm ideas, host virtual meetings and share files—all without jumping between apps.

This helps teams stay connected, share updates faster, and reduce the time spent searching for information. Simply put, Teams makes it easier to work together and stay organised.

3. OneDrive: Cloud storage at your fingertips

OneDrive is your go-to cloud storage. It makes it simple to store and access your files from anywhere. For example, let’s say you’re working remotely from a coffee shop and need to review a client proposal. With OneDrive, you can open the document on any device, whether it’s your laptop, phone, or tablet, and keep working from where you left off.

Sharing files with team members or clients is just a click away, so you can keep projects moving without delays. It keeps workflows efficient, no matter where you’re working from.

4. Outlook: Simplifying email and calendar organisation

Outlook is much more than your standard email. It’s a complete productivity solution for managing both communication and scheduling in one place. With Outlook, you can not only send emails, but also schedule meetings, send invites, and attach documents directly within the platform, keeping everything streamlined.

For instance, a project manager could set up a virtual meeting with remote team members, include an agenda, and share relevant files—all in one email. This integration makes it much easier to stay organised and meet deadlines without having to switch between different apps.

5. SharePoint: A new way to share ideas

SharePoint is excellent for businesses that need to manage large volumes of documents and collaborate across teams. It gives you a centralised space where everyone can access, edit and collaborate on documents, with version control making sure you always have the latest file at hand.

To see the power of Microsoft 365 solutions, imagine a legal firm managing hundreds of contracts. With SharePoint, team members can store, organise and collaborate on documents in one secure location.

Version control ensures that every update is tracked, preventing confusion over outdated files. Instead of digging through email chains, employees can quickly access the latest version, add comments, and make edits in real time.

6. Microsoft Exchange: The smart solution for business communication

Microsoft Exchange is a business-class email solution built for companies that need secure, reliable and efficient communication across their teams. Unlike standard email services, Exchange provides advanced security features like automatic malware scanning, phishing protection, and encryption to keep sensitive data protected.

For instance, a financial firm handling confidential client data can use Exchange’s security policies to prevent sensitive emails from being sent to the wrong person. Plus, with shared mailboxes and seamless integration with managed IT support services, customer service teams can collaborate effortlessly, ensuring no client enquiry falls through the cracks.

7. Microsoft Planner: Task management made easy

Microsoft Planner makes it easy to stay on top of tasks and projects with its user-friendly features. Think of it as a digital to-do list, but designed for teams.

For example, let’s say you’re preparing for a product launch. With Planner, you can set up a project board, break it down into tasks, and assign those tasks to specific team members, all while setting clear deadlines.

The visual tracking feature lets you quickly see where progress stands—so if marketing falls behind, it’s immediately apparent. This keeps everyone on the same page, helps avoid last-minute chaos, and ensures no task gets overlooked. It’s a straightforward way to stay organised and on track.

8. Power BI: Unlock the full potential of your data

Power BI is a game-changer for businesses looking to make smarter, data-driven decisions. It takes raw data and turns it into easy-to-read, interactive reports and dashboards.

For example, a sales team can use Power BI to track real-time sales trends, analyse performance metrics, and adjust strategies as they go. By visualising data in a way that’s clear and actionable, Power BI helps businesses make quick, informed decisions that drive efficiency, boost profits, and keep teams aligned with their goals.

9. Microsoft 365 security features: Keeping your data safe

Security is a major priority for any business, and Microsoft 365 features a range of built-in tools to keep your data safe. Features like multi-factor authentication (MFA), data loss prevention (DLP), and encryption all work together to protect sensitive information.

For instance, if an employee working remotely accidentally sends an email with confidential details to the wrong recipient, DLP can step in to block the email from being sent. Plus, with continuous security monitoring, businesses can stay proactive, catching potential threats in real time before they cause harm.

The benefits of Microsoft 365 for non-profit organisations

Microsoft 365 offers a robust set of tools that can help any business, but its benefits for non-profits are particularly notable. Let’s explore how these features can support non-profit organisations in achieving their goals.

Keep costs low and do more with your budget

Non-profits often work with tight budgets, so every dollar counts. Microsoft 365 offers free or heavily discounted plans for eligible organisations, giving them access to professional-grade tools without breaking the bank.

Work effortlessly as a team, wherever you are

Whether your team is in the office, working remotely, or out in the field, Microsoft 365 makes collaboration easy. With Teams, OneDrive and SharePoint, staff and volunteers can share documents, hold virtual meetings, and stay connected in real time.

Protect sensitive data with built-in security

Non-profits handle donor information, financial records, and other sensitive data that need to be protected. Microsoft 365 includes top-tier security features to help safeguard your operation from cyber threats.

Save time and reduce admin work

Automating repetitive tasks with tools like Power Automate can free up valuable time. Instead of manually handling data entry, tracking volunteer hours, or sending follow-up emails, Microsoft 365 streamlines these processes so your team can focus on making a difference.

Scale as you grow

Whether you’re a small grassroots organisation or a growing non-profit with multiple locations, Microsoft 365 grows with you. Cloud-based access means you can add new users, integrate more apps, and expand your capabilities without investing in expensive IT infrastructure.

Interested in using Microsoft 365 for your non-profit? ADITS can create a personalised solution to help your team collaborate better, stay secure, and grow. Learn how we can support your non-profit here.

How to transition to Microsoft 365

Now that you have a good understanding of Microsoft 365’s key features and how it can benefit your business, are you ready to make the switch? Here’s a straightforward roadmap to help guide you through the process and get started smoothly.

1. Assess your current systems

Before transitioning to Microsoft 365, it’s important to evaluate your existing tools and workflows. Start by listing the software you currently use for communication, file storage and collaboration. For example, if your team uses separate platforms for email, file sharing, and messaging, Microsoft 365 offers a unified solution with Outlook, OneDrive and Teams.

Identify areas where Microsoft 365 can improve efficiency, such as reducing the number of tools needed for collaboration or helping remote team communication. Doing this will help make sure you’re making the most of what Microsoft 365 has to offer.

2. Choose the right Microsoft 365 plan

When selecting your Microsoft plan, it’s a good idea to choose one that matches your business’s size and needs. If you’re looking for comprehensive protection, Business Premium would be the best option, as it includes Microsoft Defender, advanced identity and access management with Microsoft Entra ID, and robust device management with Intune.

Once you’ve narrowed down the plan, consider your business’s specific needs, like security features (e.g., multi-factor authentication), storage limits, and collaboration tools – Teams and SharePoint, for example. By considering these factors, you’ll be able to pick the plan that best meets your team’s day-to-day needs and workflows.

3. Prepare for migration

Before moving to Microsoft 365, you also want to make sure your data is fully backed up. Take the time to gather all your essential files, emails and documents that need transferring to the cloud. This ensures you don’t overlook anything important during the migration process.

Assign a project manager or team members who are responsible for overseeing the process. This helps make sure no critical systems or files are missed during the move, reducing disruptions and ensuring a seamless transition for the whole team.

4. Implement Microsoft 365

Once your data is prepared and your migration team is in place, it’s time to begin the move. Start by transferring your files to OneDrive, ensuring they’re securely stored in the cloud.

Next, set up SharePoint to boost team collaboration, making sure everyone has easy access to view and edit files. Then, roll out Teams to keep communication seamless, allowing your team to chat and hold meetings without any hassle. Be sure to tailor each tool to your team’s specific needs to ensure everything integrates smoothly and works together effortlessly.

If you’re looking for support during the transition, ADITS can make the process as smooth as possible. Our expert team will guide your migration, minimising downtime and helping your business fully leverage Microsoft 365’s capabilities.

Tips to maximise the value of your Microsoft 365 investment

Microsoft 365 is packed with productivity and collaboration tools, but many businesses only scratch the surface of its capabilities. Here are five effective tips to help you unlock the full potential of your 365 investment:

Take advantage of AI features: Use Power Automate to streamline repetitive tasks like email notifications and approvals, and take advantage of Copilot in Excel and Word to boost productivity.
Customise security settings: Strengthen data protection by enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA), data loss prevention (DLP), and conditional access policies.
Train your team: Keep your team up to speed by regularly training them on the latest Microsoft 365 features. This is a great way to improve efficiency and strengthen security.
Optimise collaboration with Teams & SharePoint: Centralise workflows, share files seamlessly and integrate third-party apps for a more connected workspace.
Monitor usage & analytics: Use Microsoft 365 admin tools to track adoption, identify underutilised apps, and refine your approach for maximum ROI.

Let ADITS optimise Microsoft 365 for your business

You’re now well-versed in Microsoft 365’s capabilities. But to truly maximise its benefits, you need the right setup and expert guidance. This is where ADITS takes the lead.

We handle everything from migration to ongoing management, making sure your business runs smoothly with secure, hassle-free collaboration. With our personalised solutions, hands-on support and specialised insights, we help you make the most of Microsoft 365—leaving you free to focus on running your business.

Let’s simplify IT. Contact ADITS today!

7 Reasons Why You Should Upgrade to Microsoft 365 Business Premium

Posted on 10/03/202522/04/2025 by b2medeveloper

Let’s face it. Staying competitive and keeping pace with rapid technology advancements is no cake walk. But continuing to struggle with outdated software or disconnected systems can lead to significant losses for your business. It can get in the way of productivity, team collaboration, and even impact digital security.

Whether you’re using a basic Microsoft licence or considering making the switch from Google Workspace, let’s explore a more comprehensive solution. Getting support with Microsoft 365 services and harnessing the value of Business Premium is the answer to these challenges. Microsoft 365 Business Premium delivers a powerful, all-in-one suite of tools to help your business operate more securely and efficiently. Here’s why.

1. Enhance Security

Considering there are as many as 10 cyber attacks reported every hour in Australia, it’s critically important to take proactive steps to defend against cyber risks and protect sensitive data.

Microsoft 365 Business Premium includes robust tools for maintaining a secure environment, like Advanced Threat Protection (ATP), Microsoft Defender, and Data Loss Prevention. Strong security tools like these can be invaluable for your business in safeguarding against external threats and internal vulnerabilities.

2. Streamline Collaboration and Productivity

Upgrading to Business Premium can transform collaboration, productivity, processes, communication, and accessibility for your team. Use Teams to facilitate comms, and OneDrive and SharePoint to share files and work on documents simultaneously – especially valuable for teams working in hybrid or remote environments. Since everything lives within an integrated system, your teams can avoid the headache of switching between platforms and get work done more quickly and effectively.

Note: Basic Microsoft licences provide applications like Teams, Exchange, OneDrive, and SharePoint but it only offers web/mobile-based versions of essential apps like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Lacking the full functionality of desktop versions can limit your team’s capabilities.

3. Secure Data Access for Remote Teams

For many businesses, hybrid and remote working arrangements have become the norm. Perhaps you’re in the same boat. The thing is, this type of flexibility needs to be backed by secure processes for managing devices that have access to company data.

Business Premium plans provide Mobile Device Management (MDM) support. This enables you to control access to sensitive data on authorised personal and work devices. MDM can allow you to implement security policies, wipe lost or stolen devices remotely and manage applications and settings. It’s vital to protect important data, no matter where your people work.

4. Get More for Your Money

While upgrading to a premium plan may seem like an additional outlay, it can actually give you more bang for your buck in the long-term. It brings together everything you need (baseline security, productivity and communication tools) in a cost-effective, all-in-one package.

Eliminating the need for third-party apps or multiple software licenses can make it easier for your business to streamline operations and consolidate costs. It’s also easily scalable to grow alongside your business.

5. Simplify IT Management

Microsoft 365 Business Premium is easy to manage, so those of you with internal IT employees can spend more time focusing on your business and less time managing the complexities of IT. A centralised admin panel gives you the ability to manage applications, data, devices and users more efficiently. Better yet, you can implement automated updates and compliance tools, reducing the time investment for performing things like routine maintenance and security patches. This can also free up time for your IT team to focus on strategic initiatives that drive business growth.

6. Transition Easily

For businesses considering making the switch from other environments, like Google Workspace, the process isn’t as daunting or complex as you might think. Microsoft offers easy migration tools to create a seamless transition, without interrupting daily operations.

Microsoft’s support teams are also available to guide your businesses through the transition, ensuring minimal downtime and a smooth shift to the new environment.

7. Future-Proof Your Business

As technology evolves, Microsoft continues to stay ahead of the curve. Business Premium is constantly updated with the latest features and security patches, meaning you’ll be equipped with the latest tools to stay competitive. Because of Microsoft’s focus on agility and innovation, Business Premium offers a future-ready solution that adapts to new industry trends and technologies, and contributes to long-term growth and sustainability.

Embrace the change

Considering making the switch or upgrading to Microsoft 365 Business Premium? It’s a strategic move that supports security, efficiency and future readiness. You don’t need to be a tech wizard to gain the benefits of increased protection, seamless collaboration tools, and simplified IT management. Harnessing these features can enable you to get back to focusing on what matters most for your business: growth, innovation, and achieving your mission. Whether you’re looking to enhance security, improve productivity or get more for your money, a premium licence can equip your organisation well for the modern digital landscape. The time for change is now. Lay the foundation for success with leading technology.

Transform your organisation with Microsoft Business Premium today.

How NFPs Can Harness Microsoft 365 to Enhance Their Mission

Posted on 02/03/202522/04/2025 by b2medeveloper

NFPs have an invaluable role creating social impact and making the world a better place. But too often, outdated technology and limited resources hinder your capabilities. While your willingness to do more may be limitless, your capacity to do more may not.

Technology has the power to change that. The right digital tools can support your NFP to streamline operations, improve collaboration, and free up time and resources to focus on your mission. Microsoft 365 is a powerful, viable and cost-effective solution to do just that – equipping your team with enterprise-level productivity capabilities, increased security, and better communication tools.

Let’s explore challenges, opportunities, and ways you can unlock the full potential of our Microsoft 365 services to drive greater impact.

What challenges exist, and how can IT Bridge the Gap?

Having a depth of experience supporting NFPs with IT services, we understand many organisations can be challenged by limited IT budgets, ways your budget can be allocated, and tech know-how. What’s more, many rely on outdated systems, which can slow down operations, create security risks, and make collaboration difficult.

Modernising your technology suite can empower your team members and volunteers to spend less time navigating inefficient systems, and more time driving your mission forward.

Consider how enhancing technology can maximise your resources and time, as well as your ability to increase fundraising activities, collect donations online and communicate with donors, supporters and other key stakeholders.

Improving your organisation’s digital maturity and IT capabilities is an effective way to:

improve collaboration – enable your team to work seamlessly and collaboratively using cloud-based tools, regardless of their location.
enhance productivity – utilise intuitive applications, automation tools, and planning tools to simplify tasks and reduce manual workload.
strengthen data security – improve your ability to support compliance, data privacy and security with built-in protections to safeguard sensitive information.
scale operations – adjust services to meet your organisation’s changing needs, without major upfront investments (only pay for what you use and access technology grants and discounts, exclusive to NFPs).

Microsoft 365 enables NFPs to work smarter, not harder, protect your data, enhance team capabilities, and drive meaningful change.

Key Microsoft 365 Services that Supercharge NFP Operations

Many NFPs are improving their digital maturity by utilising different platforms, from websites and social media, to email marketing. But using IT in bits and pieces doesn’t equate to digital transformation.

Wouldn’t it be great if you could open one software, and everything was there?

This is where Microsoft 365 comes in – delivering a suite of tools within a unified platform. With everything in one place, operations can become more streamlined, allowing your team to work more effectively toward their goals.

Let’s cover some key applications that make a difference improving NFP operations:

Office 365 services – access must-have document creation and collaboration tools like Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
Outlook – enable your team to manage emails, calendars, tasks and contacts.
Teams, SharePoint & OneDrive – facilitate your team’s ability to share files, conduct meetings, collaborate in real time, and keep projects on track.
Microsoft Defender – safeguard personal data and devices.
Designer – create, design and edit anything (with AI capabilities).
Clipchamp – use advanced video editing software, with premium filters, effects, brand kits, and export capabilities.
Copilot – take advantage of Microsoft’s AI assistant in select apps.

Microsoft 365 include a variety of applications that help NFPs protect what’s important, elevate your content, make everyday tasks easier, and focus more on your mission – less on IT concerns.

Did you know: more than 90% of non-profits with high digital maturity believe technology has helped their organisation be more efficient or improved their mission impact? Find out more in our eBook: Unlock Your Microsoft 365 Benefits to Multiply Your Mission Impact.

Keep Your IT Secure and Up to Date with Microsoft 365 Services

If you’re limited by technical resources or keen to take the hassle out of maintaining your technology, consider getting support with Microsoft 365.

Our Microsoft 365 services ensure your platform is up to date with the latest security, features, and performance improvements. Gaining support from a trusted Microsoft partner with regular updates is a great way to enhance cyber security, reduce downtime and ensure your team is always working with optimised tools.

Migrating your business to the cloud can enable your NFP to focus on your mission, with IT expertise to handle the complexities of system maintenance, security, and improvements.

Access Discounted Microsoft 365 Services

“Microsoft Tech for Social Impact” provides affordable, accessible technology and tools to help NFPs of all sizes achieve their mission. It’s a great way to decrease IT expenditure, while better equipping your team. Learn more about Microsoft’s discounts, plans, and technology grants for eligible NFPs to access enterprise-grade tools at lower costs.

Throughout the industry, more NFPs are relying on Microsoft 365 services as a cost-effective way to overcome IT complexity, improve collaboration, work more efficiently and enhance security. Leveraging these applications within a unified platform can help you focus on what matters most: achieving your mission.

Every hour saved, task simplified, and connection made can take you one step further in having a greater impact in the communities you serve.

Motivated to tap into your NFP’s potential with Microsoft 365? Learn more about our Microsoft 365 services and book your free consultation with our specialists today.

Why Microsoft 365’s Built-in Backup Isn’t Enough

Posted on 21/08/202420/05/2025 by b2medeveloper

The importance of data backup cannot be overstated. Ask yourself what would become of your business if you were to lose critical information?

Not only do accidental deletions, hardware failures, or cyberattacks result in business disruption, but they can also damage your reputation, and lead to unexpected financial costs. In Australia alone, the average cost of a data breach has increased by 32% in the last five years.

If you’re enjoying the benefits of Microsoft 365, you might think your business is safe thanks to the built-in backup feature. Unfortunately, even the tech giant acknowledges that it cannot guarantee the security of data stored in its cloud services.

Moreover, there are known vulnerabilities and emerging threats specifically targeting Microsoft SharePoint, a widely used component of Microsoft 365. Recent reports have highlighted security flaws in SharePoint that are being actively exploited by malicious actors, posing significant risks to organisations relying on this platform.

These limitations underscore the need for robust, multi-layered backup solutions that go beyond the built-in options provided by Microsoft 365.

Microsoft 365’s Built-In Backup Features Work

Microsoft 365’s backup features can work with small, individual files. They’re better suited for short-term recovery needs, such as accidental deletions or edits of a project or document. This means that while Microsoft ensures that it won’t lose your data, it does not make any guarantees about restoring data if you do. Let’s dive into some of these backup features.

File History

This enables you to back up specific folders on your local device and allows you to restore previous versions of files in case of accidental deletion or modifications.

However, File History only protects what’s in designated folders on your local device. It doesn’t cover your entire Microsoft 365 environment, which might include emails, shared documents, or data from other applications.

It also has limited functionality. It does not create system image backups for a full system restore, which is crucial for recovering from major system crashes.

Moreover, backups are stored on your local device, which can fill up quickly and become vulnerable if your device suffers a hardware failure. If your local drive fails, you lose both your original data and the backup.

OneDrive Versioning

This feature keeps track of previous versions of files stored in your OneDrive account. It’s useful for reverting to an earlier document draft. However, version history only goes back a certain period, as defined by Microsoft. If you need to recover a file from months ago, this feature won’t be able to help.

There are also security concerns. Microsoft emphasises data protection within their cloud storage, but a successful breach or sophisticated ransomware attack could still compromise your OneDrive backups. Keep in mind that cloud security is a shared responsibility, according to Microsoft – you will always be responsible for your data, endpoints, account, and access management.

Retention Policies

Retention policies can automatically archive or delete older data based on set rules, but they are not true backup solutions. They don’t create a separate copy of your data, and deleted items might be permanently unrecoverable after a specific timeframe. Accidental deletions or data breaches could still result in permanent data loss.

Litigation Hold

This helps preserve emails, even deleted ones, for a set period. It temporarily safeguards specific user mailboxes or data sets during legal proceedings.

Recycle Bins

Recycle bins are not really meant for backups but can be a safety net for recently deleted emails, documents, and other files. You can recover items accidentally trashed, but only within a specific timeframe (typically 30 to 90 days).

Explore Beyond Microsoft 365 Backup Features

An independent, third-party, backup solution is the best way to protection organisations against the most common data loss pitfalls and Microsoft’s limited native recovery capabilities.

Here are our thoughts on why we think a combined effort is the way to go.

Flexible retention: Third-party backup solutions often provide significantly longer retention periods compared to Microsoft 365’s built-in options. This means you can keep your data for years, ensuring that you have access to historical information whenever needed. This is particularly important for businesses that need to comply with long-term data retention policies.
Granular recovery: One of the standout features of third-party backup solutions is the ability to perform granular recovery. This means you can restore specific items, such as individual emails, files, or even specific versions of documents, without having to recover entire mailboxes or sites. This level of precision can save time and reduce disruption during the recovery process.
Automatic and Continuous: Backups run automatically and continuously. You don’t need to remember to manually back up your data because automatic backups are scheduled at regular intervals to ensure continuous protection. Some solutions can capture changes to your data as they happen, so you’re always covered, even for accidental deletions or edits made just moments before.
Enhanced Security: Cloud backup providers offer advanced security features.
- Encryption: Data is encrypted both in transit (between your devices and the cloud) and at rest (within the cloud) using industry-standard encryption protocols.
- Access Controls: You can define who can access your backups and what level of access they have, ensuring only authorised users can view or restore data.
- Additional Features: Cloud backup solutions may offer features like multi-factor authentication (MFA) and anomaly detection for further security enhancements.
Attuned with 3-2-1: A cloud-based backup aligns with the 3-2-1 backup rule. This helps optimise data security, with 3 copies of your data on 2 different media types, with at least 1 offsite or cloud copy.

Embrace a Proactive Approach to Your Backup Strategy

Data security is a cornerstone of business resilience. It is important to understand the criticality of your data to find the backup solution adapted to your needs.

Don’t wait for a data loss incident to uncover the gaps in your current backup strategy. Whether you’re in Brisbane, Townsville, or anywhere across Queensland, take proactive steps now to safeguard your business’s most valuable asset—its data. Investing in a robust, multi-layered backup solution is not just a precaution; it’s a strategic move to ensure business continuity and peace of mind.

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Ensuring Data Security and Compliance with Microsoft 365

Posted on 25/06/202422/04/2025 by b2medeveloper

Did you know that having cyber security covered doesn’t necessarily mean that requirements for privacy laws are in place?

After a few years of major cyber attacks making headlines, we would hope that there is an increasing understanding of the critical importance of cyber security. However now, the focus needs to also be on data privacy.

Why?

Financial services clients want their data to be secure.
Patients want Healthcare services to keep their records confidential.
Donors to Nonprofits want their personal information properly handled.

Data privacy is about protecting people. Of course, all organisations wish for better security, but not everybody does what is needed for data protection. When it becomes an afterthought, it can lead to the impression that privacy and security are at odds with one another.

However, when done strategically, ensuring data privacy can lead to:

Trust and Confidence: When customers are confident that their data is secure with you, they are more likely to do business with you.
Regulatory Compliance: Non-compliance with strict regulations can result in hefty fines and legal consequences.
Competitive Advantage: Customers are becoming more concerned about data privacy issues, so organisations that prioritise it can gain a competitive edge.

An ally in your quest for better data protection is Microsoft 365. The leader in cloud-based productivity software provides a range of features and practices to help organisations protect their sensitive information. In this article, we’ll look at how Microsoft 365 can help to protect your organisation’s data while meeting rigorous compliance requirements.

Security Features in Microsoft 365

What’s in Microsoft 365 that can help you create a resilient digital environment? Here’s an overview of Microsoft (Office) 365 security and compliance features.

FEATURE*	DESCRIPTION	ROLE	EXAMPLE
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)	Adds an extra layer of security on top of passwords; users who log in must provide a second form of verification (like a text message or an authentication app)	Reduces the risk of unauthorised access; even if a password is compromised, MFA prevents account breaches	If an employee’s credentials get compromised, MFA can stop criminals in their tracks.
Microsoft Defender	Formerly known as Advanced Threat Protection (ATP), shields against sophisticated cyber threats, including phishing emails, malware, and zero-day attacks	Scans attachments and links in emails, blocking malicious content before it reaches your inbox	When a staff member receives an email claiming to be from a trusted client and ATP detects a suspicious link, it prevents them from clicking and thwarts a potential phishing attack.
Data Loss Prevention (DLP)	Prevents accidental or intentional data leaks, by identifying sensitive information (e.g., credit card numbers, health records) and enforcing policies to prevent unauthorised sharing	Ensures that confidential data stays within your organisation, minimising the risk of accidental exposure	When an employee tries to email a customer list containing personal details, DLP flags the action, preventing accidental leakage and maintaining compliance.
Information Rights Management (IRM)	Allows control over who can access, forward, or print specific documents or emails, encrypting files and restricting actions based on permissions	Secures sensitive documents, even when shared externally, so that only authorised recipients can view or modify them	When you share a confidential contract with a partner, IRM ensures that they can read it but can’t forward it to others without permission.

*These are all included with a Microsoft 365 Business Premium licence at no extra cost.

Staying Healthy with Microsoft Secure Score

Using Microsoft 365 Secure Score is like having a built-in security health checkup. It evaluates how well you’re protecting your digital assets, including data, devices, and applications. The better your security practices, the higher your score. Secure Score can recommend where you can improve, then you can create an action plan to implement recommended actions.

The Secure Score feature is included in Microsoft 365 Business Premium and available once you start using the suite. You don’t need to set up Secure Score, and you can view it in the Defender for Cloud Overview dashboard. The score automatically updates every day.

Some recent updates to Microsoft Secure Score can further enhance your security posture:

Phishing-resistant MFA strength is required for administrators
Windows Azure Service Management API is limited to administrative roles
Internal phishing protection for Microsoft Forms is enabled
SharePoint guest users cannot share items they don’t own

Compliance Capabilities in Microsoft 365

Microsoft 365 supports these compliance standards:

ISO 27001: Outlines best practices for information security management systems and helps improve security controls and risk management
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA): Helps protect healthcare data, controlling access, and maintaining audit trails
Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA): Guides banks, credit unions, insurance companies, and other financial services institutions in outsourcing material business activities like cloud computing services
Privacy Act 1988 (Cth): Governs personal information handling by businesses, with Australian Privacy Principles (APPs) outlining how to collect, use, and disclose personal data
Notifiable Data Breaches (NDB) Scheme: Mandates businesses to report eligible data breaches to affected individuals and the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC)

To monitor compliance with these standards, your IT expert can log in to your Microsoft 365 admin centre and navigate to the Security and Compliance section. Choose the relevant modules then configure settings and set up policies. If a standard is not available, you can contact an external IT professional with GRC capability to map out its requirements to your security policies and settings.

Key Compliance Tools in Microsoft 365

The features below can help enhance your compliance:

Tool	Description
Compliance Manager	Helps track compliance tasks and assessments Simplifies complex regulatory requirements Provides a quantifiable compliance score to track your efforts
Compliance Score	Quantifies compliance efforts across various controls Measures your adherence to standards Enables continuous improvement by spotting gaps
eDiscovery	Vital for legal and regulatory purposes Allows you to search, hold, and export content for legal cases Ensures compliance during litigation or investigations
Audit Log Search	Aids in monitoring and investigating security incidents Tracks user and admin activities within Microsoft 365 Provides an audit trail for compliance audits

Best Practices for Data Protection and Governance

Here are some key best practices for enhancing data security in your organisation, particularly when using Microsoft 365:

Prioritise data encryption, ensuring sensitive information is obscured from unauthorised access, even within Microsoft 365
Implement MFA to add an extra layer of security, deterring potential breaches
Regularly update access permissions, reflecting changes in roles and responsibilities, to maintain tight control over data access
Conduct frequent security awareness training, fostering a culture of vigilance and proactive protection among your team
Utilise Microsoft 365’s advanced threat protection features to guard against sophisticated cyber threats
Establish clear data governance policies that define the handling, storage, and transmission of data, aligning with industry standards
Engage in continuous monitoring and auditing of data activities to quickly identify and address any irregularities or vulnerabilities
Embrace a strategy of least privilege, limiting user access to the minimum necessary for their role, reducing the risk of internal threats
Back up data regularly, ensuring business continuity and resilience in the face of unexpected data loss incidents.
Stay informed about the latest security trends and updates, adapting your strategies to the evolving digital landscape.

Microsoft 365 Compliance and Cyber Security Solutions in Brisbane, Townsville

Ensuring data security and compliance is a strategic imperative for modern businesses. At ADITS, we understand the complexities and challenges involved in maintaining them. Our team of experts is committed to helping organisations in Brisbane, Townsville, and across Queensland leverage the full potential of Microsoft 365 to safeguard sensitive information and ensure regulatory compliance. Whether you’re looking to optimise your existing Microsoft 365 setup or planning a new implementation, ADITS provides tailored solutions designed to meet your unique needs.

Contact us today to learn more about the cyber security services and compliance benefits in Microsoft 365 for your Queensland business:

TRANSFORM WITH MICROSOFT 365

7 Ways to Work Smarter (Not Harder) with Microsoft Copilot

Posted on 30/10/202322/04/2025 by b2medeveloper

Can you imagine making 100 copies of a 100-page document entirely by hand, with just pen and paper?

That’s what we would be doing if not for digital duplicators, photocopiers, and scan-to-print devices. Those machines have made document reproduction much faster and easier, as inventions and tools do.

One recently popular tool is AI. We have seen the likes of ChatGPT and DALL-E, and more yet are coming. In business, Microsoft Copilot is emerging as a highly useful digital assistant. How exactly can Copilot help you work smarter? Look at these specific ways.

1. Proposal Generation in a Legal Services Firm

Let’s say you are a lawyer in an estate law firm, and you need to prepare a consulting proposal for a client. You can use Microsoft 365 Copilot in Word to draft the proposal. Just provide information such as the client’s name, the purpose of the proposal, the services you are offering, its benefits, and a call to action.

After Copilot generates the document, you can review and make changes. You may also ask Copilot to check your grammar, spelling, and punctuation and offer suggestions to improve your writing.

You could even have Copilot help you to format the document according to the best practices in your industry. Use it to suggest and apply styles, headings, bullet points, tables, charts, and images to your proposal.

Before submission, use Copilot to share your proposal with your colleagues and get feedback and suggestions. It can help you to track changes, comments, and revisions and keep your document up to date.

2. Data Analysis & Visualisation for Nonprofit Resource Allocation

If your non-profit needs to decide about resource allocation in, say, promoting disability rights, you can use Copilot to gather and process data for your basis.

Also use Copilot to help you:

Collect data from a variety of sources that you specify
Check the data for errors and inconsistencies
Use a tool like Excel to analyse your data and identify patterns
Generate charts/data visualisations for clearer presentation
Check the data for errors and inconsistencies
Create a report and a presentation to communicate the results

3. Patient Report Writing for a Healthcare Provider

Periodic patient reports are a regular task for healthcare professionals. A medical specialist can use Microsoft Copilot to automate report generation, summarising a patient’s medical history, current medications, treatment plans, and patient progress updates.

The report writer can ask Copilot for help in:

Collecting data from electronic health records (EHRs), billing systems, and databases
Instructing Copilot how to create the report, using a JavaScript or Python script
Actual report generation
Filing the reports and sharing with relevant personnel

4. Chatbots for a Financial Services Business

If your organisation offers financial services, chances are you will often receive queries and customer support requests. You can use Copilot for:

Training chatbots to answer common customer questions and about your offerings
Providing real-time support to your customer support staff, including finding relevant and accurate information, drafting standard responses, and resolving issues speedily
Generating reports and analytics about customer interactions, to identify and address areas for improvement in customer support

5. Legal Document Templates Generation

Lawyers, legal secretaries, and paralegals can get smart with Microsoft Copilot when creating templates for non-disclosure agreements, wills, trusts, and other documents. Just identify the templates that you need, then provide Copilot with relevant data such as your business name, address, and contact information.

You may use a Copilot script to specify how to generate the legal document templates. You could then run the script, review the templates, proofread and improve them. Copilot can also assist in formatting your document templates and, if needed, convert documents from Word into PDF or HTML which could be easier to share and use.

6. Marketing Campaign Automation for Non-Profit Fundraising Program

If you work in a non-profit organisation aiming for increased donor engagement, improved efficiency, and better fundraising campaign insights, Copilot can assist you in several ways:

Generating Personalised Email Campaigns

Marketing staff can tap Copilot to generate personalised email campaigns for donors and potential donors. This can help increase open rates and click-through rates.

Creating Social Media Posts

Copilot can be used to create social media posts tailored to the interests of target supporters. This can increase engagement on social media and even drive more traffic to your website.

Segmenting Donor Lists

Fundraising staff can use Copilot to segment donor lists based on factors like donation history, interests, and demographics. This can help you to target donor audiences more effectively.

Tracking Campaign Results

Copilot can help executive staff track the results of campaigns, including email open rates, click-through rates, and social media engagement. These can help you improve on future campaigns.

7.Financial Modelling & Analysis (FMA) in Education & Training

If a private training institution is proposing a new set of courses, they can do an FMA to make decisions – about launching the courses, for resource allocation, and to find out the financial impact on the organisation. In particular:

Copilot can be used to analyse data (e.g., government reports, industry surveys, and social media) to identify the potential market for new courses. For example, Copilot can help identify fast-growing industries and develop new courses that will train students for jobs in those industries.
Copilot can help to estimate the costs of new courses, including course materials development, hiring instructors, and marketing the courses. Copilot can also be used to estimate the potential revenues and recommend the tuition fee rates.
Copilot can be used to evaluate the financial impact of new courses on the overall business. For instance, Copilot can help estimate the increase in revenue, the increase in course costs, and the impact on the overall profit margin.
Copilot can help in creating reports and presentations that communicate the financial benefits of new courses to stakeholders. For one, Copilot could be used to show how new courses can increase revenue and achieve strategic goals.

Microsoft 365 Copilot: Your Smart AI Assistant

Can you imagine how efficient and productive your organisation can become with Microsoft Copilot compared to without it?

The tool will be available from the 1st November 2023 to Microsoft 365 customers on a Business Enterprise agreement for an extra $30 USD per user per month. For related information, you may reach out to ADITS right now. For other practical technology guides, you may check out our free business IT resources. Whether you’re in Brisbane, Townsville, or beyond, we’re here to help you navigate your IT needs with confidence.

Microsoft AU Price Increase: What You Need to Know

Posted on 09/08/202305/09/2025 by b2medeveloper

Back in 2022, Microsoft announced it would start aligning global prices with U.S. dollar rates. For Australian businesses, that meant a Microsoft price increase of around 9% on licences like Microsoft 365 Business Premium and Enterprise by September 2023.

Now in 2025, pricing updates are still rolling out. And they’re reshaping how organisations of all sizes budget for software and manage their IT spend.

If you’re using Microsoft 365 or other cloud services, these changes affect more than just the line items on your invoice. They impact long-term cost planning, subscription choices, and even the way businesses think about licensing strategies.

Understanding what’s driving the increase, who it affects, and how to respond will help you stay ahead of rising costs. So keep reading and let’s break it all down.

What’s new in 2025?

In April 2025, Microsoft updated how it bills annual subscriptions. If your business is on an annual plan with monthly payments, your next renewal will automatically include a 5% price increase. This means spreading payments over the year now comes at a slightly higher cost.

Paying the full annual fee upfront avoids the extra 5%, giving you a lower overall rate for the same subscription. For businesses that can budget ahead, this is a simple way to save money, lock in predictable costs, and simplify billing.

For IT managers and finance teams, this update affects more than just invoices. It influences renewal strategies, cash flow planning and long-term licensing costs. So weighing upfront payment against monthly installments can make a real difference to your bottom line.

Currency	Cloud Change %	On-Premises Change %
Australian Dollar	+9%	+9%
New Zealand Dollar	+7%	None
Canadian Dollar	+6%	+6%
Swiss Franc	-9%	None

Note: Like the Swiss Franc, some prices can decrease depending on currency fluctuations, local market conditions, and inflation.

Who feels the Microsoft price increase the most?

The Microsoft price increase impacts certain subscriptions more than others. Monthly-billed annual plans see the most noticeable increase. While businesses paying upfront for the full year maintain their current rates for the term.

Add-ons are also taking a bigger slice of the budget. Power BI licences, for example, have surged by up to 40%, and Teams Phone has climbed around 25%.

For organisations relying on these tools, costs can rise quickly. This makes it crucial to review your subscriptions, consider consolidating where possible, and plan renewals carefully.

Billing update summary

Here’s a quick look at how the April 2025 billing changes affect different plans:

Billing type	Impact of April 2025 update
Annual billing, paid monthly	+5% price rise at renewal
Annual billing, paid upfront	Price stays the same for the term
Add-ons (Power BI, Teams Phone)	Significant increases (25–40%)

What does this mean for you?

Rising subscription costs aren’t just numbers on a bill. They affect how your business budgets, plans and manages IT resources. If your licences renew soon, now’s the time to take stock.

Consider whether monthly billing still makes sense. Switching to upfront annual payments locks in existing rates and removes the 5% surcharge, giving your finance team greater predictability.

It’s also a good moment to assess which add-ons are actually necessary. With services like Power BI and Teams Phone climbing significantly in price, trimming unused or underused licences can free up your budget without impacting productivity.

Finally, these changes highlight the value of planning ahead. By reviewing subscription needs, timing renewals strategically, and consolidating where possible, your business can keep costs under control, even as Microsoft pricing continues to evolve.

Which programs are impacted?

Not all subscriptions are affected in the same way. The 2025 price updates apply to a range of commercial licensing programs. These include:

Enterprise Agreement (EA) – Commercial, Government, and Education Solutions
Microsoft Customer Agreement for Enterprise (MCA-E) – seat-based offers only
Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) with MCA – seat-based offers only (Commercial, Government, and Education Solutions)
Legacy CSP Open Value – Commercial, Government, and Education Solutions
Open Value Subscription – Commercial, Government, and Education Solutions
Microsoft Products and Services Agreement (MPSA) – Commercial, Government, and Academic
Microsoft Online Services Portal (MOSP)
MCA Online
Select Plus

Not sure if your licences are affected? Your ADITS Account Manager can check for you and explain what the changes mean.

The Microsoft licences and services that remain unchanged

Not everything sees a price hike. Here’s a look at the licences and services that remain unaffected:

Azure via Microsoft Customer Agreement (MCA): Azure pricing is set in U.S. dollars, but billed in your local currency, with rates recalculated monthly. This means licences aren’t affected by the price increase.

Existing commercial agreements with price protection: If your business already has orders under agreements with price protection or locked enrollment prices, those products won’t increase in price. Keep in mind, however, that new products, upgrades, renewals or contracts will follow the updated rates.

Hardware and consumer software/services: Devices, consumer software and consumer cloud subscriptions are not affected by the Microsoft price changes.

Take control of your Microsoft licensing costs

Rising subscription prices and billing changes don’t have to catch your business off guard. With ADITS, you get a partner who helps you review your licences, identify unnecessary add-ons, and choose the payment options that save money and simplify budgeting.

If you want clarity, predictability and smarter Microsoft 365 management, reach out to our friendly team today! We’re here to help you plan, protect your budget, and make informed licensing decisions for your business.

Intersport – Rockhampton, Townsville & Toowoomba

Posted on 29/03/202315/01/2025 by b2medeveloper

This project was carried out to Intersport’s three sites (Rockhampton, Townsville & Toowoomba). This business was moved to a cloud-based environment which elevates the need for them to have any on-prem server infrastructure. As part of the customers roadmap, ADITS provided suitable recommendations for compatibility with upgraded infrastructure from our world-class vendors.

This project was staged for all 3 sites so the customer had no downtime during working hours.

The Transmission Centre