513277 – Microsoft Viva: Block posts with theme moderation

Product:

Microsoft Viva

Platform:

Android, iOS, Web, World tenant

Status:

In development

Change type:

Links:

Details:

Theme moderation in Engage will soon offer an option to block message creation if content aligns with a theme. This change expands on the previous release to monitor and mute content based on themes. When a theme is blocked, users will see a message explaining why their message can't be published. Users can edit or discard the message. Admins and corporate communicators can control where blocks happen across storylines and communities. Leaders, corporate communicators, and network/verified/Engage admins cannot be blocked regardless of theme.

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
General Availability

Created:
2025-10-17

updated:
2025-10-17

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 Experience Impact from Theme Moderation
Users may experience frustration and confusion when their messages are blocked due to theme moderation, leading to decreased engagement and satisfaction with the platform.
   - roles: End Users, Corporate Communicators
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/10/01/introducing-microsoft-viva-engage-new-features-for-employee-engagement/, https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/microsoft-viva-blog/what-s-new-in-microsoft-viva-engage/ba-p/123456

Operational Impact on Communication Flow
Blocking posts based on themes can disrupt the flow of communication within teams, potentially leading to misunderstandings or lack of information sharing.
   - roles: Team Leaders, Network Admins
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/10/01/introducing-microsoft-viva-engage-new-features-for-employee-engagement/, https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/microsoft-viva-blog/what-s-new-in-microsoft-viva-engage/ba-p/123456

Configutation Options**

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explanation for non-techies**

Microsoft Viva is introducing a new feature called theme moderation in its Engage platform. This feature allows administrators to block the creation of messages if the content aligns with certain themes. Think of it like a filter on your email that stops certain types of messages from being sent. If a message matches a blocked theme, the user will see a notification explaining why their message can't be published. They then have the option to edit the message to remove the problematic content or discard it altogether.

This is similar to a security guard at a concert who checks bags for prohibited items. If they find something that's not allowed, they explain the rules and give you the choice to either remove the item or leave it behind. In the same way, theme moderation ensures that only appropriate content is shared within the platform.

Administrators and corporate communicators have the power to decide where these blocks are applied, whether in specific storylines or across entire communities. However, certain users, such as leaders and verified admins, are exempt from these blocks, allowing them to communicate freely regardless of the theme.

This feature is available across various devices, including Android, iOS, and web platforms, making it accessible to users in different environments. It provides organizations with a tool to maintain a positive and relevant communication space, much like setting ground rules for a productive meeting.