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OK, I have been reading the Harry Potter books with my son recently so excuse the random magical references but I thought it might be a fun way of looking at the new(ish) Microsoft Viva licensing model, if there is such a thing as having fun and licensing in the same blog. Anyway, it’s been a while since I wrote a blog explaining the licensing model in Microsoft Viva and there have been some changes. It’s also been a little while since I wrote a blog article in general as I’ve been doing a few more video format updates the last few weeks.

So stick on your witch/wizard hats and grab your wands:-

In the ever-evolving world of remote work, digital transformation, and the modern workplace (can I fit any more buzz words in there), Microsoft Viva has emerged as a shining beacon of hope for organisations seeking to create a more connected and engaged workforce. But hold on to your witch/wizard hats because, my friends, choosing the right licensing option for Microsoft Viva is like embarking on a magical journey. In this whimsical blog post, we’re going to explore the enchanting realm of Microsoft Viva and its mystical licensing options.

The Mystical World of Microsoft Viva

Before we jump into the mystical realm of licensing, let’s take a quick refresher on what Microsoft Viva is all about. Picture it as a magical cloak woven from the threads of Microsoft 365 and other mystical services. Its purpose? To boost employee engagement, well-being, learning, and knowledge-sharing within organisations. It’s like the wizard’s wand that casts a spell to make your workplace more connected and enchanted.

Licensing Potions and Elixirs

Now, let’s dive into the fascinating world of Microsoft Viva licensing. Just like the wizard’s spell book, Microsoft Viva offers a variety of licensing options to suit different organisational needs. Beware, though, as these licensing spells may have evolved since our last update. Always check Microsoft’s magical website or consult their wise wizards (a.k.a. sales representatives) for the most current enchantments. Here’s what we know:

1. Microsoft Viva Employee Communications and Communities – $2.00/user/month (Annual commitment)

This enchantment includes:

  • A company-branded employee destination for news and announcements.
  • Access to learning content in Microsoft Teams.
  • Personal insights for employees.
  • Community and conversations in Viva Engage.
  • Magical apps included: Viva Connections, Viva Engage, Viva Amplify.

2. Microsoft Viva Workplace Analytics and Employee Feedback – $6.00/user/month (Annual commitment)

This spell encompasses:

  • Organisational insights for managers and leaders.
  • Custom insights tools and accelerators.
  • Organisation-wide ‘voice of the employee’ surveys.
  • Quick surveys to help managers seek and act on feedback.
  • Enchanted apps included: Viva Insights, Viva Glint, Viva Pulse.

3. Microsoft Viva Suite – $12.00/user/month (Annual subscription – auto renews)

The granddaddy of them all, this magical potion combines the features of both Viva Employee Communications and Communities and Viva Workplace Analytics and Employee Feedback. It includes:

  • Goal-setting and management tools.
  • Learning recommendations, tracking, and partner integrations.
  • An array of mystical apps: Viva Connections, Viva Engage, Viva Amplify, Viva Insights, Viva Glint, Viva Pulse, Viva Goals, Viva Learning.

Standalone Licensing Potions

But wait, there’s more magic to explore! In addition to the licensing spells above, Microsoft Viva offers standalone licensing potions. These individual potions provide specific enchantments, and you can choose them to add extra magic to your Microsoft Viva experience. Here are the standalone potions:

  • Viva Learning – $4.00/user/month: Seamlessly integrate access to learning content into the places employees already spend their time.
  • Viva Insights – $4.00/user/month: Improve productivity and well-being with data-driven, privacy-protected insights and recommendations.
  • Viva Goals – $6.00/user/month: Stay aligned at scale, focus teams on impact, and bring goals into the flow of everyday work.
  • Viva Glint – $2.00/user/month: Understand the voice of the employee to improve engagement and performance across your organisation.

These standalone potions allow you to customise your magical arsenal, adding the specific spells you need to create an even more enchanting workplace.

Note that Viva Topics appears to have had a vanishing spell cast upon it I wonder why!? more news on that in another chapter.

Choosing the Right Spell

Selecting the perfect licensing spell depends on a few key factors:

  1. The Size of Your Kingdom: Consider the size of your organisation; it may affect which spell is most suitable.
  2. Wand-Wielder Needs: Take a peek into the minds of your employees. What do they need? Well-being, knowledge, or perhaps a bit of both?
  3. Existing Magic Potions: If you already have Microsoft 365 and Teams licenses, some Viva magic may already be included (think Viva Connections and some Viva Engage and Viva Learning features).
  4. Wizard’s Wallet: Be mindful of your budget. Choose a spell that doesn’t drain your magical treasure chest.
  5. Future Enchantments: Think about your organisation’s future growth. The right spell should adapt as your kingdom expands.

In the End, Magic Awaits

In the mystical world of Microsoft Viva, the right licensing spell can transform your workplace into an enchanted realm where productivity soars, and well-being thrives.

So, embrace the magic, and embark on your journey to create a more connected and enchanted workplace with Microsoft Viva. The right licensing spell can unlock the secrets to a happier and more productive workforce.