Microsoft solutions have been around for decades. In the past, Microsoft’s applications had few competitors in the business and educational arenas. However, as more companies have released new applications designed for these purposes, some consumers have wondered whether Microsoft is still the best choice.
Through the years, Microsoft has continued to optimize and enhance its products to meet the evolving needs of clients in the field of education. Today, Microsoft still stands apart from the competition as the superior choice for K-12 schools.
Microsoft 365 Education
Microsoft offers a variety of products useful for K-12 schools. Microsoft 365 Education combines these products into a convenient package so districts have everything they need to get started with Microsoft and succeed. Microsoft 365 Education includes:
- Office 365 Education
- Windows 10
- Enterprise Mobility + Security
This package provides K-12 schools with an operating system, as well as all the applications required to meet the needs of students, teachers and administrators. Some of the applications found in this package include Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Yammer, OneDrive, OneNote and SharePoint. The applications included in this package do not operate from the school’s data center. Instead, they are hosted in the cloud and supported by Microsoft. Schools can gain access to additional applications by purchasing Office 365.
Why Is Microsoft 365 Education Better?
Microsoft 365 offers several advantages for school districts. Some of the most noticeable benefits include:
1. Guaranteed updates.
All applications included in this package are updated Microsoft in the cloud, which means that the school’s IT team no longer needs to worry about installing updates on a regular basis.
2. Easy, convenient access.
Students and other users of Microsoft 365 Education can access their files from any location and on any device. As long as a user has an internet connection, he or she can work on projects and/or find any file needed.
3. Storage in the cloud.
All the data saved by students and other users can be stored in the cloud, which means that schools don’t need to worry about maintaining their own data center. This saves significant resources and reduces headaches for the school.
4. Improved efficiency and test scores.
According to Microsoft, studies showed that this package helped reclaim 216 hours per teacher, saved $51 per student and reduced classroom device setup time by 84 percent. Student test scores also increased among districts using Microsoft 365 Education.
5. Affordability.
Students and faculty are eligible to use Microsoft 365 Education for free if they meet certain requirements. After schools register, they will receive a promotional kit from Microsoft that explains the software and helps schools get started.
These are just a few of the advantages that set Microsoft solutions apart for K-12 schools in NYC and Long Island. As the needs of schools continue to grow and change, Microsoft is always ready to meet the challenges and overcome any obstacles. Their solutions are likely to be reliable for many years to come. Schools interested in setting up Microsoft solutions for their students, faculty and administrators should consider working with a qualified consultant.
