OneDrive

Q: What is OneDrive used for?

OneDrive is used to store, organise, and share files with access across devices and integration with Microsoft 365 tools.

Q: When should an organisation use OneDrive?

It should be used when an organisation is already using Microsoft 365 tools and needs a centralised system for file storage and collaboration.

Q: Does OneDrive store organisational data externally?

Yes, data is stored on Microsoft’s cloud infrastructure, and organisations should review data residency and access controls based on their requirements.

Cloud file storage and sharing platform within Microsoft ecosystem for nonprofits & social purpose organisations

OneDrive is a cloud-based storage service by Microsoft that enables organisations to store, access, and share files across devices. It integrates with Microsoft 365 tools such as Word, Excel, and Teams to support collaboration and document workflows.

File access and collaboration challenges for nonprofits & social purpose organisations

Challenge

Files are stored across local systems, emails, or multiple tools, making access inconsistent

Version control becomes difficult when documents are shared across teams

Collaboration is fragmented when tools are not integrated

Teams working across locations lack a centralised file system

Solution

Tools like OneDrive help organisations store files centrally, enable controlled sharing, and collaborate through integrated Microsoft tools

Key capabilities of Microsoft OneDrive

Core capabilities that support centralised file storage and integrated collaboration across teams

Centralised cloud storage

Store and organise files in a shared environment with access across desktop, mobile, and web

Controlled file sharing and access

Share files with internal teams or external stakeholders using defined permissions and access levels

Version control and file recovery

Track changes to documents and restore previous versions when required

Integrated collaboration with Microsoft 365

Work on files within tools such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Teams with shared access and real-time updates

OneDrive in action

See how organisations use cloud storage within integrated work environments

WaterAid: Strengthening global collaboration through Microsoft Cloud for Nonprofit

DATA MANAGEMENT AND COLLABORATION

WaterAid used Microsoft Cloud for Nonprofit to connect data across its global federation, enabling more consistent workflows and improved collaboration across regions.

Read Full Case Study

Pricing for nonprofits

OneDrive is typically included as part of Microsoft 365 plans

Free plan

Available for nonprofits, governments, and humanitarian organisations.

Microsoft 365 plans

Start from ~$6/user/month (varies by plan)
Includes storage, collaboration tools, and admin controls

Nonprofit access

Discounted or free access may be available through Microsoft for Nonprofits

Best suited for which nonprofits?

Organisations using Microsoft ecosystem

Strong fit for teams already using Word, Excel, Teams, or Outlook

Organisations needing integrated collaboration

Useful where file storage and document editing are connected

Similar tools for file storage

Dropboxindependent cloud storage platform

Frequently Asked Questions

What is OneDrive used for?

OneDrive is used to store, organise, and share files, with access across devices and integration with Microsoft 365 tools.

When should an organisation use OneDrive?

When it is already using Microsoft 365 tools and needs a centralised system for file storage and collaboration.

Can OneDrive be used for collaboration?

Yes, it supports collaboration through shared files, permissions, and integration with tools such as Word, Excel, and Teams.

Does OneDrive store organisational data externally?

Yes, data is stored on Microsoft’s cloud infrastructure. Organisations should review data residency and access controls based on their requirements.

What is required to use OneDrive effectively?

It works best when used alongside Microsoft 365, with basic familiarity with file sharing, permissions, and document collaboration workflows.

Want to learn more?

Visit OneDrive