If you’re managing projects within Microsoft 365, you may have already encountered the newly updated Planner tool. It’s designed to bring together the best of Microsoft Project, Planner, and To Do into a single, streamlined platform. This makes it an essential tool for those looking to enhance their project management workflow within Microsoft Teams.
In this article, we’ll cover the top 10 must-have features of Microsoft’s new Planner and how they can transform your project management approach.
1. Unified Project and Task Management
The biggest advantage of the new Planner is its ability to bring together features from Microsoft Project, Planner, and To Do. This unification allows you to manage complex projects alongside your daily tasks all in one place. No more juggling multiple platforms—everything from task assignments to tracking is now streamlined.
To learn more about how this unified platform works, check out Is There a Project Management Tool in Microsoft 365?
2. Kanban Boards for Visual Planning
One of the standout features of the new Planner is its intuitive Kanban board system. This visual tool lets you organize tasks into categories or stages, making it easy to track progress. Teams love using Kanban boards to move tasks from “To Do” to “In Progress” to “Completed.”
For a deeper dive into how Microsoft 365 helps you manage tasks and projects, visit Can You Use Microsoft 365 for Project Management?
3. Task Scheduling and Deadlines
Effective project management requires clear timelines, and Microsoft’s Planner allows you to schedule tasks and set deadlines. Tasks can be viewed on a calendar, making it easier to plan work weeks and manage time-sensitive projects. Deadlines can be updated, and overdue tasks are flagged, so nothing slips through the cracks.
4. Integration with Microsoft Teams
Planner’s seamless integration with Microsoft Teams is a game changer. You can create, assign, and track tasks directly from your Teams workspace without needing to switch between apps. This integration allows for real-time collaboration and communication, ensuring your team is always on the same page.
Discover more about Microsoft Teams’ role in project management in What Microsoft Tool Is Used for Project Management?
5. Document Management with SharePoint
In project management, having access to the right documents is crucial. The new Planner integrates with SharePoint, making document management a breeze. You can store project files in one place, collaborate on documents, and ensure everyone has access to the latest versions.
Learn more about document management and collaboration in Does Office 365 Include a Project Plan?
6. Task Dependencies
For more complex projects, tasks often depend on the completion of other tasks. Planner’s task dependency feature ensures that teams can map out these relationships, allowing for better project sequencing and task prioritization.
If you’re curious about how you can add more advanced project management features, visit Can I Add Project to Office 365?
7. Mobile Access for On-the-Go Management
In today’s work environment, remote access is key. The new Planner offers mobile apps that allow you to check tasks, make updates, and collaborate with your team from anywhere. This flexibility ensures you can keep your project moving forward, even when you’re away from the office.
8. Power Automate Integration for Task Automation
Save time by automating repetitive tasks using Power Automate. This feature allows you to automate task assignments, notifications, and workflows based on project changes, ensuring no manual follow-ups are needed.
Discover how Power Automate enhances your workflow by reading Are Visio and Project Included in Office 365?
9. Advanced Reporting and Analytics
Reporting is crucial for understanding project performance. The new Planner includes built-in reporting tools that offer insights into task completion, project timelines, and team productivity. These reports allow you to make data-driven decisions to keep projects on track.
For a cost breakdown of adding advanced reporting tools like those found in Project Plan 3 or Plan 5, check out How Much Does It Cost to Add Project to Office 365?
10. AI-Powered Task Suggestions
One of the most exciting features of the new Planner is its AI-powered task suggestions. By analyzing your project’s scope and progress, the tool can recommend tasks, prioritizations, and even provide suggestions on how to complete projects more efficiently.
For more insights on choosing the best project management tool, read What Is the Best Microsoft Planning Tool?
The new Planner in Microsoft 365 offers a comprehensive set of tools to make project management simpler, more visual, and easier to integrate with your existing workflows. Whether you’re managing a small team or a large, complex project, Planner can help you stay on track and boost productivity.
Looking for even more project management insights within Microsoft 365? Explore our guide on Is Project Management Included in Office 365?
By leveraging these features, your team can make the most out of Microsoft 365’s project management ecosystem, ensuring that every project is completed on time and within budget. If you’re looking for an alternative or more integrated solution, you might want to check out Trovve, an AI-enhanced project management tool built to work seamlessly with Microsoft Teams.
Try Trovve on Microsoft Teams free for 7 days – no credit card required
