433684 – Microsoft 365 app: Microsoft Places (archived)

Product:

Copilot, Microsoft 365 Apps, Outlook, Teams

Platform:

Android, iOS, Mac, Web, Windows Desktop, World tenant

Status:

Launched

Change type:

Links:

Details:

Microsoft Places is an AI-powered workplace app for flexible work, empowering hybrid employees to foster in-office collaboration and leveraging insights into space optimization. Places intelligently allows you to coordinate your hybrid team to make the most of in-office days, modernize how employees make connections, and optimize space management with occupancy and utilization data.

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
General Availability

Created:
2024-10-31

updated:
2025-01-09

Docu to Check

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MS workload name

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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

User Disruption
Unprepared implementation of Microsoft Places may lead to confusion among users regarding new workflows and collaboration methods, resulting in decreased productivity and frustration.
   - roles: Employees, Team Leaders
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/10/01/introducing-microsoft-places-a-new-way-to-work/

Data Mismanagement
Without proper training and preparation, users may misinterpret occupancy and utilization data, leading to inefficient space management and potential over-crowding or under-utilization of office spaces.
   - roles: Facilities Managers, IT Support
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/10/01/introducing-microsoft-places-a-new-way-to-work/

Integration Issues
Lack of preparation for integrating Microsoft Places with existing Microsoft 365 apps could result in technical glitches, affecting user experience and collaboration across platforms like Teams and Outlook.
   - roles: IT Administrators, Project Managers
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/10/01/introducing-microsoft-places-a-new-way-to-work/

Configutation Options**

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Opportunities**

Enhanced Collaboration Insights
Microsoft Places provides data-driven insights into space utilization and occupancy, enabling teams to optimize in-office collaboration. This can lead to improved team dynamics and better planning for in-person meetings, ultimately enhancing productivity.
   - next-steps: Implement training sessions for team leaders to understand and leverage the data provided by Microsoft Places for better collaboration strategies.
   - roles: Team Leaders, HR Managers, Facilities Managers
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/10/03/introducing-microsoft-places-an-ai-powered-workplace-app-for-hybrid-work/

Improved Space Management
By utilizing occupancy and utilization data, organizations can make informed decisions about office space, potentially reducing costs associated with underutilized areas. This can lead to better resource allocation and reduced overhead costs.
   - next-steps: Conduct an initial analysis of current office space usage and compare it with the insights provided by Microsoft Places to identify areas for improvement.
   - roles: Facilities Managers, Finance Managers, Operations Managers
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/10/03/introducing-microsoft-places-an-ai-powered-workplace-app-for-hybrid-work/

Streamlined Hybrid Work Coordination
Microsoft Places allows for seamless coordination of hybrid work schedules, helping employees to plan their in-office days effectively. This can enhance employee satisfaction and engagement, leading to better retention rates.
   - next-steps: Develop a communication plan to inform employees about the new features and encourage them to use Microsoft Places for scheduling and collaboration.
   - roles: HR Managers, IT Administrators, Team Leaders
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/10/03/introducing-microsoft-places-an-ai-powered-workplace-app-for-hybrid-work/

Potentional Risks**

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IT Security**

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explanation for non-techies**

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