Calendars, task lists, and project planning are essential business tools, and many rely on Microsoft’s apps to manage these tasks. While these tools are invaluable for keeping workflows on track and ensuring task accountability, they function as separate apps. Constantly switching between them can complicate processes and disrupt productivity.
To combat this app overload, Microsoft has launched an upgraded version of Microsoft Planner. This new release is packed with features aimed at streamlining your project management experience.
New Features in the New Microsoft Planner
The updated Microsoft Planner merges:
- The collaboration features of the current Planner
- The task management simplicity of Microsoft To Do
- The advanced capabilities of Microsoft Project for the web
- The automation power of Microsoft Copilot, the company's AI companion
This new Planner is set to become a robust tool for staying organised, enhancing collaboration, and achieving your goals with greater ease.
Unifying Your Workflow: Tasks, Plans & Projects All in One Place
You can now say goodbye to juggling multiple apps and adopt a streamlined experience with the new Microsoft Planner. The new Planner goes beyond basic to-do lists, seamlessly integrating tasks, plans, and projects all in one place.
This means you can manage everything from simple daily tasks to complex, multi-phase projects—all within a single, intuitive interface. You can access the new Microsoft Planner through Microsoft Teams or a web browser. Here is a glimpse of what you will be able to do with it:
#1 Enhanced Collaboration: Simplifying Teamwork
The new Microsoft Planner is designed to keep teams connected and coordinated, no matter where they are. Real-time updates ensure everyone is on the same page, while features like shared task ownership and in-app comments promote clear communication and efficient teamwork.
#2 AI-Powered Insights: Your Smart Assistant for Success
The new Microsoft Planner integrates AI through Microsoft Copilot, offering intelligent assistance to help you stay on top of your work. This smart companion can suggest relevant plans, tasks, and goals based on your context and needs. It even analyses your progress and offers adjustments to keep you on track.
#3 Scaling with Your Needs: From Simple Tasks to Complex Projects
Recognising that one size does not fit all, the new Microsoft Planner offers the flexibility to accommodate both individual tasks and large-scale enterprise projects. Whether you are managing a personal to-do list or orchestrating a major company project, Microsoft Planner adapts to your specific requirements.
#4 Start Fast & Save Time with Pre-Built Templates
Getting started is easy with Microsoft Planner’s pre-built templates. These ready-made templates are designed for a variety of projects and goals, allowing you to jump right in without starting from nothing.
Available templates include:
- Project Management
- Software Development
- Sprint Planning
- Marketing Campaigns
- Commercial Construction
- Employee Onboarding
Exciting Features in the new Microsoft Planner
- Improved Navigation: A redesigned interface makes it quicker and easier to find what you need.
- Enhanced Task Views: Choose from different views, like grid and board views, to customise how you organise and visualise your tasks.
- Microsoft App Integration: Seamlessly integrate with other Microsoft tools, including Power BI, Teams, Microsoft Viva Goals, Power Automate, and more.
- Customisable Fields: Add custom fields to tasks to capture information specific to your project.
- Goal Setting: Define clear goals and visually track progress within your plans.
- Critical Path: Identify the essential tasks that are required to complete your project on time.
- Improved Search: Find what you need quickly with powerful search functionality.
The Future of Task, Planning and Project Management
The new Microsoft Planner reflects a growing trend in the digital world: less is more. By reducing the number of apps you need and streamlining interfaces, Microsoft Planner offers powerful features in an intuitive package. Both individuals and teams can leverage these tools to enhance workflows and boost productivity with the help of its AI-powered assistant.
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