For many organizations, Microsoft 365 forms the foundation of modern work. It offers collaboration tools, as well as information and endpoint management from the cloud, easily deployed and always up-to-date. Consequently, many may have mistakenly assumed that Microsoft 365 deployment is so effortless that Microsoft handles everything, allowing users to simply leverage the service without concern. In reality, however, the situation is not that straightforward, as the use of Microsoft 365 is based on a shared responsibility model, where both the service provider and the user organization bear their own responsibilities.
What is a Managed Microsoft 365 Cloud, and why is it needed?
To begin, let’s break down the shared responsibility model. Although Microsoft 365 is technically a SaaS service, more responsibilities have been transferred to the user organization than is typically the case with other SaaS services. In essence, Microsoft manages the service’s operation, while the user organization is accountable for how the service is utilized and secured.
Microsoft is responsible for:
- cloud infrastructure and data centers
- service availability and technical functionality
- updates and development of applications (Microsoft 365)
- the platform’s baseline security and certifications
The user organization is responsible for:
- user accounts and access rights
- identities and access management practices
- security and protection settings
- data, its ownership, and lifecycle management
- backup and recovery
- monitoring, response, and operating models
The secure and business-supporting utilization of the Microsoft 365 cloud demands active management, continuous monitoring, and proactive development from the user organization. This underscores the significance and necessity of a managed cloud, particularly when IT departments’ internal resources are constrained.
Challenges for IT Departments
Today’s IT environments are complex entities, and Microsoft 365, while crucial, is only one component. IT department specialists often have numerous responsibilities, and their time and/or expertise may not suffice for the comprehensive development and maintenance of the Microsoft 365 service. In this scenario, it is prudent to consider your organization’s Microsoft 365 cloud strategy: what tasks will be handled internally, and where will external assistance be required? If IT services are outsourced to a partner, are they capable of delivering managed cloud services at the desired service level, in addition to basic IT support? Ask yourself the following questions:
- Is our environment monitored adequately?
- Is our environment developed systematically?
- Is our environment actively protected?
- Is our environment optimized for cost and usability?
Managed Microsoft 365 Cloud
At Above IT, we have continuously productized and actively developed our managed cloud services since our inception. We recognize that organizations have diverse needs, which we strive to meet with various service packages.
At its most basic, our collaboration occurs within the Supported Cloud model, where the customer retains responsibility for execution. However, we provide support to the customer’s IT department specialists as needed and jointly develop the environment according to a collaboratively established roadmap.
Building upon the Supported Cloud service, clients can opt for Management, Productivity, and Security Modules, either individually or in combination. Through these modules, we provide comprehensive maintenance for client organizations’ Microsoft 365 cloud environments.
In summary, Above IT’s Managed Microsoft 365 Cloud is a service model where IT management gains an expert partner to ensure that the cloud environment remains managed, secure, and fit for purpose throughout its lifecycle, in accordance with the shared responsibility model. We implement this same approach as a service in our group company Below IT Oy’s services with a more standardized model for comprehensive core IT outsourcing.
It is important to note that managed Microsoft 365 cloud services extend beyond basic IT maintenance. They additionally provide proactive security, enhanced user experience, cost management, and continuous development, thereby transforming reactive support into a proactive IT function that genuinely supports business operations. For instance, our service automates various tasks that IT departments should regularly perform within their environments but are often overlooked. This ensures your Microsoft 365 environment consistently remains in optimal and well-maintained condition.
Do you want to ensure your Microsoft 365 cloud is truly managed?
Above IT assists IT departments in genuinely taking control of their Microsoft 365 cloud and developing it proactively, securely, and with a business-driven approach. You can experience working with us with a very low barrier to entry. Discover with us how a Microsoft 365 license package can be transformed into a true business enabler.
👉 Explore Microsoft 365 PilviCapo services here or contact us below to discuss further!
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