Microsoft 365 is more than just a suite of familiar applications like Word, Excel, and Outlook. It’s a powerful cloud-based platform designed to streamline communication, collaboration, and productivity across organizations of any size. But subscribing is just the beginning.
To make the most of your investment, you need to configure Microsoft 365 properly and ensure your team is aligned with best practices. For companies in the UAE, working with professionals who provide Microsoft Integration Services Dubai can make this process faster, smoother, and more efficient.
Here are the top 10 things you should do right after subscribing to Microsoft 365.
1. Set Up User Accounts and Assign Licenses
Begin by adding users in the Microsoft 365 admin center. You can do this individually or in bulk, depending on the size of your team. Assign the appropriate licenses based on job roles and responsibilities whether that’s Business Basic, Standard, or Premium.
Also, define administrative roles to control access levels and permissions. This ensures that sensitive features and data are only available to authorized personnel.
2. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Security should always be a top priority. Enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA) helps protect your organization against unauthorized access, phishing attempts, and identity theft.
MFA requires users to verify their identity using a second form of authentication, such as a mobile device or security key. Microsoft makes it simple to enable MFA across your organization from the admin center.
3. Set Up a Custom Domain for Email
Instead of sticking with the default @yourcompany.onmicrosoft.com domain, configure your organization’s branded domain (e.g., yourname@yourcompany.com). This not only enhances your brand image but also improves deliverability and professionalism in your business communications.
The setup is straightforward using Microsoft 365’s guided domain wizard, which helps with DNS configurations and verification.
4. Configure Microsoft Teams for Communication
Microsoft Teams has quickly become the central collaboration platform within Microsoft 365. Set up Teams and channels tailored to your departments or projects. You can integrate additional apps such as Planner for task management, OneNote for documentation, and Power BI for reporting.
Encourage users to transition away from email and use Teams for daily communications, file sharing, and video conferencing to centralize all collaboration in one place.
5. Organize and Migrate Existing Data
Before diving into your new environment, it’s important to migrate your data properly. You can use OneDrive for individual file storage and SharePoint Online Services Dubai for shared team files and project documents.
Take this opportunity to organize your data structure delete duplicates, categorize files by department or project, and ensure that access controls are in place.
6. Build SharePoint Sites for Collaboration
SharePoint Online allows organizations to build internal portals, workflows, and collaboration spaces. Use it to create department-specific sites or company-wide intranet portals where teams can collaborate, share resources, and manage projects.
Implementing proper version control, user permissions, and metadata will help users find and use information efficiently.
7. Leverage OneDrive for File Backup and Sync
OneDrive for Business enables users to store, sync, and share personal work files securely. It’s especially useful for remote work scenarios or employees who use multiple devices.
Using OneDrive business services Dubai can help you configure best practices, such as restricting external sharing, enabling file versioning, and setting up secure mobile access.
8. Configure Data Protection and Compliance Policie
Microsoft 365 offers advanced data protection features such as:
- Data Loss Prevention (DLP)
- Sensitivity labels
- Retention policies
- eDiscovery and legal hold
These tools are essential for organizations that handle sensitive data or are required to meet compliance standards like GDPR or HIPAA. Establishing these settings early on prevents data leaks and supports regulatory compliance.
9. Provide User Training and Onboarding
New tools are only effective if your team knows how to use them. Conduct internal training sessions or leverage Microsoft’s built-in Learning Pathways to teach employees how to use:
- Outlook and Calendar effectively
- Excel with advanced functions
- Microsoft Teams for communication
- OneNote for organizing thoughts and meetings
Custom training focused on your specific business needs will lead to better user adoption and productivity.
10. Monitor Usage and Performance from the Admin Center
Microsoft 365 provides a comprehensive admin center with real-time reports on usage, adoption, and security. Use it to:
- Monitor app usage across teams
- Identify underused licenses
- Track potential security threats
- Review service health and updates
Regular monitoring ensures you’re making the most of your subscription and enables proactive problem-solving.
Conclusion
Subscribing to Microsoft 365 is just the first step. Proper setup, strategic planning, and continuous optimization are key to unlocking the platform’s full potential. Whether you’re using it for communication, file storage, data security, or team collaboration, taking the right initial steps will set your business up for success.
If you’re unsure how to get started or need help customizing your Microsoft 365 environment, working with experienced partners like Sk Technology can make a significant difference. From configuration to training and ongoing support, they ensure your Microsoft 365 investment delivers long-term value.
