Office 365 recently changed its name, and is now Microsoft 365. Here we will explain this new product from Microsoft in detail, including how it differs from SharePoint – another Microsoft service it is often confused with.

SharePoint

SharePoint is a collaborative platform that has been around for 19 years. Basically, SharePoint was designed for companies to create intranets, so that employees can collaborate easily. It’s also used for document management. But what sets SharePoint apart from other systems is its ability to organize and share different types of content (events, tasks, links, announcements, etc.). Think of SharePoint as a single tool for all the information within your organization.

Microsoft 365 (Office 365)

In 2011-2012, Microsoft decided, as several companies did, to transfer its applications to the “cloud”. This means that all its applications are no longer on Microsoft’s server, but can be accessed through a website. This eliminates the need for organizations to purchase hardware or install anything in their environment. All software became available through any computer with a browser and internet connection. 

In addition, Microsoft bundled all the great apps it had (Outlook, SharePoint, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Skype, etc.) and offered them in one single solution, Microsoft 365. 

SharePoint is only a small piece of the Microsoft 365 ecosystem. Over the past few years, Microsoft has added new applications to its suite, such as Planner, Power Automate, Power Apps, MS Stream and others. What makes SharePoint unique is that it integrates well with most of the applications included in Microsoft 365, bolstering its reputation as a one-stop shop. 

However, the mix of apps available as part of a Microsoft 365 subscription varies depending on the subscription plan and licenses your company has acquired.

In short…

Microsoft 365 is the consolidation of several applications, including SharePoint, while SharePoint is an individual platform that allows you to manage and share your files with members of your company, and create an internal intranet. If you want to learn more about Microsoft 365 or SharePoint, feel free to contact an expert. In addition, training is offered on these two solutions; visit the Microsoft 365 training or the SharePoint training for more.