Microsoft 365 is currently priced at $99.99 per year, while a lifetime purchase of Microsoft Office is available for just $43. This offers a significant choice for business owners when deciding how to manage their software expenses. - WYENS News

# Technology Update for Business Owners: Choose Between Subscription or One-Time Purchase for Microsoft Office **What's Happening:** Microsoft 365 is currently priced at $99.99 per year, while a lifetime purchase of Microsoft Office is available for just $43. This offers a significant choice for business owners when deciding how to manage their software expenses. **Why this matters to your business:** For many businesses, especially those with older computers, using a subscription service like Microsoft 365 can strain resources, causing slowdowns that affect productivity. A one-time purchase might provide a more stable solution, particularly for companies that don't require all the latest features of the cloud-based software. **Industry Impact Examples:** - **Retail:** Retailers can save on software costs by opting for the one-time purchase, allowing them to allocate funds toward improving in-store technology or customer experience initiatives. - **Manufacturing:** Manufacturers with older machines can reduce downtime by using Microsoft Office, which may run more smoothly than the subscription services that require more robust hardware. - **Healthcare/Professional Services:** These sectors need reliable software to manage patient records and client information. A one-time purchase can ensure stability and lower ongoing costs, freeing up budget for other essential areas. - **Small Business:** Small businesses often operate on tight budgets. Choosing a lifetime license can significantly reduce expenses, allowing for investment in marketing or additional staff. **Bottom line:** - **Opportunity:** By switching to a one-time purchase, businesses can save money and improve operational efficiency, especially on older systems. - **Risk:** Businesses should be cautious about missing out on updates and features that come with a subscription model, which may benefit newer systems. - **Timeline:** This decision should be made soon as it could impact budgeting for the upcoming fiscal year. **Action Steps:** 1. Evaluate your current software needs and the performance of existing hardware to determine which option suits your business best. 2. Consider the long-term implications of each option, including potential costs for updates and support. 3. Consult with your IT provider or software consultant to assess the best fit for your operational needs. **Questions to Consider:** - How much are you currently spending on software subscriptions, and are those costs sustainable? - Is your current hardware capable of supporting the latest software updates, or would a switch to a lifetime license be more practical? --- *Stay informed about technology trends that impact your business.*

By: WYENS