Microsoft Training
Author
Aaron Winfield
Date Published

Microsoft offers a variety of training options for Microsoft 365, catering to different roles, skill levels, and learning preferences. Here's a breakdown of some training you might have undertaken or could consider:
Types of Training:
Microsoft Official Courses: These are structured, in-depth courses often aligned with Microsoft certifications. They can be instructor-led (in-person or virtual) or self-paced online. Examples include courses for Microsoft 365 Fundamentals, Endpoint Administrator, and Administrator. These courses often cover tenant management, identity synchronization, security, and compliance.
Microsoft Learn: This is a free online platform offering a wealth of learning paths and modules for various Microsoft products and services, including Microsoft 365. These range from beginner to advanced levels and cover specific applications like Teams, SharePoint, OneDrive, and Copilot.
Microsoft 365 Training Portal: This support page provides quick start guides and video training for core Microsoft 365 apps like Outlook, OneDrive, PowerPoint, SharePoint, and Teams. It also includes resources for small businesses and accessibility features.
Microsoft 365 Learning Pathways: This is a customizable, on-demand learning solution built on a SharePoint communication site. It provides up-to-date Microsoft training content that you can tailor with your own organization-specific training materials. It can also be integrated with Microsoft Teams.
Partner-Led Training: Microsoft partners like Lumify Work, Nexacu, Odyssey Training, and Advanced Training offer a wide range of Microsoft 365 courses, including those focused on specific applications, administration, security, and end-user productivity. These often provide hands-on experience and real-world scenarios.
Microsoft Copilot Training: With the increasing integration of AI, specific training for Microsoft Copilot is available to help users understand how to leverage this tool across various Microsoft 365 apps to enhance communication and content creation.
Specialized Training: Depending on your role, you might have undertaken training focused on specific areas like Microsoft Teams administration, security and compliance using Microsoft Purview, or managing endpoints with Microsoft Intune.
Potential Content Covered in Training:
Fundamentals: Understanding Microsoft 365 cloud services, SaaS model, and the benefits of adoption.
Application-Specific Skills: In-depth training on individual apps like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, SharePoint, OneDrive, Access, and Planner, covering basic to advanced features.
Administration: Managing Microsoft 365 tenants, user accounts, licenses, security groups, and administrative roles. This can include identity management with Microsoft Entra ID and managing hybrid environments.
Endpoint Management: Deploying and managing devices using modern techniques and implementing update strategies with tools like Microsoft Intune.
Security and Compliance: Implementing security measures, managing threats with Microsoft Defender XDR, and ensuring compliance using Microsoft Purview. This includes data loss prevention, information protection, retention policies, and eDiscovery.
Collaboration and Communication: Utilizing Microsoft Teams for meetings, chat, and collaboration, as well as using SharePoint for document management and team sites.
Automation: Using tools like Power Automate to automate workflows across Microsoft 365 applications.
Data Analysis: Leveraging Excel and Power BI for data analysis and visualization.
AI Integration: Learning how to use Microsoft Copilot to enhance productivity in various Microsoft 365 apps.
Benefits of Microsoft 365 Training:
Improved Productivity: Learning how to effectively use the various applications can significantly enhance individual and team productivity.
Enhanced Collaboration: Understanding the collaborative features of tools like Teams and SharePoint can improve teamwork and communication.
Better Security Practices: Training on security and compliance features helps users and administrators protect sensitive data and adhere to organizational policies.
Increased Efficiency: Automating tasks and leveraging advanced features can streamline workflows and save time.
Career Advancement: Microsoft 365 certifications and advanced skills are valuable assets in the IT industry.
To make the most of your Microsoft 365 training, it's beneficial to identify your specific needs and goals. Are you looking to become an administrator, improve your skills in a particular application, or understand the security features? Tailoring your training to these objectives will ensure you gain the most relevant knowledge and skills.
