Microsoft365 vs Google Workspace (A practical, not-so-tech-heavy perspective)
It's an age-old question every business owner struggles with.
What platform should I run my business on? Microsoft 365? Or Google Workspace?
Most people—despite their extensive research, knowledge, or trusting their gut—get it wrong. And then have to switch.
Even I've done it. 🥲
I shit you not. This "tech guru" has migrated from Google Workspace to Microsoft 365. And then...BACK to Google Workspace.
🤡
So if you're freaking out about making the right choice, just stop right now and give yourself permission to be wrong.
Because you probably will be anyway.
Here's the thing. There's no easy answer as to which is "better".
- Each occupies a space where they do certain things well.
- Each occupies a space where they do stupid things.
- Each doesn't really play well with the other.
- Each has its own list of techy pros and cons.
And on top of all that, everyone's businesses—and business needs—change.
So the answer's different for everyone.
The answer for me? Why did I switch back to Google Workspace?
Because as my business grew, a clear majority of my customers were on Google Workspace. And were going to need Google Workspace training.
It was about 50/50 when I first migrated to MS365. As of writing this today, it's about 84/16.
When my business holds its hand up and tells me where it's headed, I try to listen.
So as much as I sighed and shook my head, I made a second migration. Back to Google Workspace.
And what do I recommend to most small business owners? Google Workspace.
Here's why. (PS - Don't stop here and make your choice, because there's more important stuff to consider below.)
The case for Google Workspace
First off, I'm neither a Google fanboy or a Microsoft fanboy.
Both products are amazing feats of engineering that have forever changed the face of tech and business.
And both drive me absolutely insane for different reasons. (But that's a different story for a different day.)
The reason I tend to lean toward recommending Google Workspace for solopreneurs, small business owners, and small teams is:
The learning curve is low.
Most people have had—and have interacted with—a Gmail account at some point in their life.
In addition to personal Gmails, Google has large market share in schools and universities.
Between these two things, this means your up-and-coming workforce (i.e. your team) is likely to have a reduced learning curve and find it much more intuitive.
Here's what Bard | Gemini AI had to say about Google Workspace in education:
Estimates vary, but studies like FutureSource show Google Workspace with a 58% market share in K-12 schools compared to Microsoft 365's 22%.
Factors contributing to Google's success:
- Ease of use: The platform is user-friendly and accessible from various devices, appealing to students and teachers alike.
- Collaboration features: Real-time collaboration tools like Docs, Sheets, and Slides are valuable for fostering teamwork and project-based learning.
However, it's important to note:
- Market share might differ depending on region and educational level
- Microsoft 365 for Education is gaining ground, particularly in higher education.
And since your team would have a reduced learning curve and find it more intuitive, that'll help your business faster and more efficiently.
BUT! There's more. That said, there are definitely, definitely other things to consider.
Top 5 Questions to Find Out Whether Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace is right for you
What are YOU most familiar with? Have you spent years in a corporate environment and know Microsoft products pretty much front and back?