488805 – Microsoft 365 app: Microsoft Places – New options for desk mode configuration

Product:

Platform:

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

Status:

Launched

Change type:

Links:

MC1124563
MC1122162

Details:

Desks can now be configured for different modes, depending on the immediate needs of the Places administrator; configurations can be changed at any time. Available desk modes include: Offline (the desk cannot be booked by anyone, also default for individual desks); Assigned (individual desks can be assigned to specific users); Bookable (the desk can be booked, subject to availability/available capacity and configured policies; and Walk-up (the desk can only be booked in person and requires the user to be physically present at the desk, subject to availability/available capacity and configured policies). #MicrosoftPlaces

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
General Availability

Created:
2025-05-02

updated:
2025-09-05

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**

Please, look at the most relevant linked item for details

explanation for non-techies**

Microsoft has introduced a new feature in Microsoft Places that allows administrators to configure desks in various modes to better suit the needs of their organization. Think of this like setting up a seating chart for a large dinner party. Depending on the occasion, you might want to reserve certain seats for specific guests, leave some open for anyone to claim, or keep some completely off-limits.

In this context, desks can be set to different modes:

1. Offline Mode: This is like putting a "Reserved" sign on a seat at your dinner party, meaning no one can sit there. It's the default setting for individual desks that aren't meant to be used at the moment.

2. Assigned Mode: Imagine having a name card at a seat, indicating that it's reserved for a particular guest. Similarly, in Assigned Mode, a desk is designated for a specific user, ensuring they have a spot reserved just for them.

3. Bookable Mode: This is akin to having a seat that can be reserved ahead of time, like calling ahead to a restaurant to make sure you have a table waiting for you. Desks in this mode can be booked in advance, subject to availability and any rules set by the administrator.

4. Walk-up Mode: Picture a seat at a casual café where you can only sit if you're there in person. Desks in Walk-up Mode can only be claimed by someone physically present, making it a first-come, first-served situation.

These configurations provide flexibility and control over how workspaces are utilized, ensuring that desk availability aligns with the needs of the organization and its employees. Just like a host at a dinner party, the Places administrator can change these settings at any time to accommodate different situations or preferences.