New Microsoft Planner 2024: Features & Benefits

Introducing the New Microsoft Planner: Everything Your Business Needs to Know

Effective project management is essential for businesses of all sizes, particularly in the dynamic environments of Wirral, Liverpool, Chester, and North West England. Recognising this need, Microsoft is launching an enhanced version of Microsoft Planner in early 2024. Hilt Digital is thrilled to explore how this update can streamline your workflows, improve collaboration, and increase productivity across various industries, including accountancy firms and construction companies.

Streamline Your Workflow: Unified Tasks, Plans & Projects

Juggling multiple applications can be a significant challenge for businesses. On average, employees switch between 22 different apps 350 times a day, leading to lost time and decreased efficiency. The new Microsoft Planner addresses this issue by integrating tasks, plans, and projects into a single, user-friendly platform. Whether you’re managing daily tasks for a primary school or overseeing large-scale projects for a construction company, the revamped Planner simplifies your workflow.

Key Integrations for Seamless Management

The updated Planner brings together the best features from several Microsoft applications:

• Microsoft Planner’s Collaboration Tools: Enhance team coordination effortlessly.
• Microsoft To Do: Simplify task management with an intuitive interface.
• Microsoft Project for the Web: Manage complex project planning with ease.
• Microsoft Copilot: Utilise AI-powered assistance to stay on track.

With these integrations, businesses in Liverpool and beyond can maintain organisation and accountability without the hassle of juggling multiple tools. For expert IT support, Hilt Digital offers managed infrastructure, proactive monitoring, and maintenance services to ensure your Planner experience is seamless and secure.

Enhanced Collaboration: Bringing Teams Together

In today’s remote and hybrid work environments, effective collaboration is more important than ever. The new Microsoft Planner makes it easier for teams across Wirral and Chester to stay connected and coordinated.

Real-Time Updates and Shared Ownership

Teams benefit from real-time updates, ensuring everyone is aligned with the latest project developments. Features like shared task ownership and in-app comments facilitate clear communication, making it ideal for estate agents coordinating property listings or law firms managing multiple client cases.

AI-Powered Insights: Your Smart Assistant for Success

The integration of Microsoft Copilot into Planner introduces AI-driven insights tailored to your business needs. This intelligent assistant can suggest relevant tasks, plans, and goals, enhancing your project management capabilities.

Proactive Management and Progress Tracking

For businesses in North West England, Copilot can analyse progress and recommend adjustments to keep projects on schedule. Whether you’re an accountant preparing quarterly reports or a school administrator organising events, AI-powered insights can significantly boost your productivity.

Scalable Solutions: From Simple Tasks to Enterprise Projects

Every business has unique needs, and the new Planner is designed to adapt accordingly. It offers flexibility for both individual task management and complex enterprise projects.

Versatility for Various Industries

• Accountants: Efficiently manage client files and deadlines.
• Construction Companies: Oversee multi-phased projects from planning to completion.
• Primary Schools: Seamlessly organise events, assignments, and administrative tasks.

Hilt Digital supports these needs with our managed infrastructure, proactive monitoring, and maintenance services, ensuring your Planner experience remains smooth and secure. Contact us today to learn how we can assist your business.

Pre-Built Templates: Get Started Quickly

Launching a new project doesn’t have to be daunting. Microsoft Planner offers a variety of pre-built templates to help you get started swiftly.

Ready-Made Solutions for Diverse Needs

Choose from templates designed for:

• Project Management
• Software Development
• Sprint Planning
• Marketing Campaigns
• Commercial Construction
• Employee Onboarding

These templates save time and provide a structured approach, allowing businesses in Wirral and beyond to focus on what they do best.

Key Features of the New Microsoft Planner 2024

Improved Navigation

A redesigned interface makes it easier to find what you need, enhancing the user experience for all team members.

Enhanced Task Views

Customise your task organisation with different views, such as grid and board options, catering to various project management styles.

Microsoft App Integration

Seamlessly integrates with tools like Power BI, Teams, Microsoft Viva Goals, and Power Automate, providing a comprehensive management ecosystem.

Customisable Fields

Add specific information relevant to your projects, ensuring all necessary details are captured effectively.

Goal Setting and Critical Path

Define clear goals and identify essential tasks to ensure timely project completion.

Improved Search Functionality

Quickly locate information with powerful search capabilities, saving valuable time.

Availability and Access

Mark your calendars! The new Microsoft Planner will be available for preview in early 2024, with a general release to follow soon after. Some features will roll out later in the year. Stay updated by visiting Microsoft’s site to sign up for updates and view the feature roadmap.

Embracing the Future of Project Management

The new Microsoft Planner embodies the “less is more” philosophy, reducing app overload and providing a streamlined interface. Its powerful features make it an invaluable tool for businesses looking to enhance their productivity and collaboration efforts.

Get Expert IT Support with Hilt Digital

Managing both legacy and new cloud tools can be complex, and ensuring they’re utilised effectively is essential for security and efficiency. Hilt Digital, based in Wirral, offers expert IT services tailored to small and medium-sized businesses across Liverpool, Chester, North West England, and North Wales.

Our Services Include:

• Managed Infrastructure: Ensure your IT systems are robust and reliable.
• Proactive Monitoring and Maintenance: Prevent issues before they arise.
• SentinelOne Endpoint Protection: Protect your business from cyber threats.
• Penetration Testing: Identify and mitigate vulnerabilities.
• Dark Web Monitoring: Keep your business information secure.
• Azure Cloud Consultancy and Management: Optimise your cloud infrastructure.

Ready to elevate your project management with the new Microsoft Planner? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how our IT services can support your business needs.

Image source: Microsoft

Image source: Microsoft