You’re paying for Microsoft 365, why not squeeze every ounce of value from it?
Most businesses use the basics: Word, Excel, Outlook, and maybe Teams. But Microsoft 365 is a productivity powerhouse hiding powerful tools just beneath the surface.
If you’re not using these 5 underrated features, you’re leaving efficiency, security, and ROI on the table.
Here’s what your business is missing.
1. Microsoft 365 Copilot (AI-Powered Assistant)
This isn't just another virtual assistant. Copilot uses AI to:
- Draft emails based on your writing tone
- Summarize long threads in Teams and Outlook
- Suggest Excel formulas
- Auto-generate PowerPoint slides from a document
Why It Matters:
AI-driven productivity is the future. Copilot helps users save hours every week by automating repetitive tasks.
2. Microsoft Loop (Real-Time Collaborative Workspaces)
Loop is Microsoft’s response to Notion and Google Docs on steroids.
It allows:
- Real-time co-authoring of components (lists, tables, checklists)
- Embedding into Teams, Outlook, and Word
- Seamless syncing across apps
Why It Matters:
No more bouncing between tabs or waiting for someone to email an updated version. Loop centralizes collaboration across tools, not just within one.
3. Sensitivity Labels & Information Protection
Most users don’t even know this exists and it’s costing businesses dearly in avoidable data leaks.
This feature allows you to:
- Apply classification tags like "Confidential" or "Internal Use Only"
- Enforce encryption or restricted access
- Automate protection based on content rules
Why It Matters:
Whether you're subject to HIPAA, GDPR, or just common sense, data loss prevention is a must.
🔐 Combined with Microsoft Purview, this gives SMBs enterprise-grade compliance tools built-in.
4. Bookings with Microsoft 365
Forget Calendly, Microsoft Bookings is already included and just as powerful.
You can:
- Let clients self-schedule calls or meetings
- Integrate directly with Teams and Outlook
- Customize availability, buffer times, and reminders
Why It Matters:
For service-based businesses, appointment automation cuts down on email ping-pong and improves client experience.
5. Microsoft Defender for Business
Yes, 365 includes its own advanced threat protection.
It features:
- Next-gen antivirus and endpoint detection
- Automated investigation and remediation
- Vulnerability management dashboard
Why It Matters:
This isn’t just basic antivirus. It's a full EDR (Endpoint Detection & Response) system designed for SMBs, at no extra cost in certain 365 plans.
Final Thoughts: Stop Underutilizing What You’re Already Paying For
Microsoft 365 is more than just Word and Outlook.
When fully used, it can:
- Increase productivity
- Reduce third-party tool costs
- Improve security and compliance
If you're unsure which features make the most sense for your business, our team at Surge Solutions is here to help. From initial setup to advanced adoption and training, we’ve got you covered.
🔗 Contact Us for a Microsoft 365 Optimization
