Managing Microsoft licensing can often be overlooked, like that unused gym membership you keep meaning to cancel. In 2025, neglecting your licensing approach could end up being just as wasteful, costing your business time and money that could be better spent elsewhere.
Keeping your Microsoft licensing in check is about more than avoiding unnecessary cost it’s about ensuring every penny you spend delivers value.
The silver lining? By planning ahead, you can make your licensing strategy efficient, future-ready, and tailored to your business needs. Here’s ACUTEC’s advice to help you make the most of your Microsoft investment in 2025.
Plan Ahead
If your renewals come up in January, don’t let the post-holiday slowdown catch you off guard. Begin the review process early to evaluate your current setup, project future needs, and avoid rushed decisions. If your business is approaching 300 employees, understanding your licensing requirements well in advance is critical to ensuring a smooth transition.
Conduct a Licence Audit
Are you paying for licences you’re not using? Studies show that over half of businesses unknowingly overspend on unused Microsoft licences. A thorough audit of your current licensing will help you eliminate inefficiencies, prevent overpayments, and ensure you’re fully covered where it matters most.
Stay Updated on New Features and Deals
Microsoft frequently introduces updates, tools, and offers that could provide significant value. For instance, upgrading from M365 Enterprise E3 to E5 unlocks advanced tools, and for the first half of 2025, there’s a 15% discount on annual commitments for E3 and E5 plans. Staying informed on these updates ensures your business remains competitive without overspending.
Match Licensing to Your Business Objectives
Your licensing strategy should be more than a box-ticking exercise—it should actively support your business goals. Whether you’re focused on scaling up, strengthening security, or unlocking new analytics capabilities, your licences should align with and enable your strategic vision.
Prepare for Key Changes in 2025
Here’s what to expect from Microsoft in 2025:
- Switch to Microsoft Customer Agreements (MCA-E): From January, traditional Enterprise Agreements (EAs) will be phased out and replaced by MCA-E, which promises more flexibility and a simpler process. Now is the time to prepare for this shift or explore other options like the Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) programme.
- UK Cloud Price Adjustments: Starting in February, UK customers will benefit from a 5-6% reduction in cloud subscription costs due to exchange rate adjustments.
- 5% Increase for Monthly Billing: As of April, opting for monthly billing within annual agreements will come with a 5% premium. Switching to an annual payment model could help you avoid this extra cost.
- Power BI Price Updates: Prices for Power BI Pro and Power BI Premium Per User are set to rise in April. Budget adjustments may be necessary for those relying heavily on Power BI.
- Teams Licensing Changes: From 2025, Teams will no longer be included in new Microsoft/Office 365 Enterprise plans. Businesses will need to purchase Teams as a separate add-on, so it’s essential to review your current subscriptions and renewal plans.
Let ACUTEC Simplify Your Licensing
ACUTEC is one of the select UK managed technology providers to have earned the prestigious Microsoft Solutions Partner accreditation are, our experts are here to help you with your Microsoft licensing strategy, audit pricing, and ensure your business benefits from the full potential of your investment.
Get in touch with our team today to find out how we can support your business in 2025 and beyond.
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