Hey there, tech enthusiasts! Buckle up, because we’re about to dive into the world of Microsoft Planner – that little tool that’s been making waves in project management circles. Microsoft Planner has long been a go-to tool for task planning and project management, helping teams stay organized and productive. But if you’ve been keeping an eye on it, you’ll know that 2024 brought some game-changing updates to the platform. These improvements aren’t just cosmetic — they’re designed to make planning easier, faster, and more intuitive for users at every level.
In this article, we’re going to peel back the curtain on these shiny new Planner features. We’ll explore the nooks and crannies of the updates, show you how to use them like a pro, and maybe even throw in a few tips to make you the office Planner guru. Whether you’re a seasoned project manager or just dipping your toes into the world of digital organization, there’s something here for everyone.
Overview of Microsoft Planner
Microsoft Planner is a versatile task management tool designed to help teams organize, plan, and track their work efficiently. Whether you’re managing a small project or coordinating a large team effort, the platform simplifies collaboration by making tasks accessible and transparent to all team members.
👉🏼If you’re new to Planner or want a deeper dive into its core features, check out our detailed article on Microsoft Planner.
One of the standout features of Microsoft Planner 2024 is its flexibility in how tasks are displayed. Users can choose between multiple views, such as the classic Kanban-style board for visual task management, Gantt charts for tracking timelines and dependencies, or even a calendar view for scheduling at a glance. This adaptability ensures that teams can work in the way that suits them best.
Another key advantage of the new Microsoft Planner is its seamless integration with other Microsoft 365 apps like Teams and Outlook. For example, tasks can be created directly from flagged emails in Outlook or discussed collaboratively within Teams channels. This interconnectedness makes it easier to keep everything in one place without jumping between tools.
Despite occasional rumors about Microsoft discontinuing Planner, the reality is quite the opposite. The company has doubled down on its commitment to improving the platform. With the new Planner, Microsoft continues to roll out updates that enhance usability and introduce powerful new features, making it an even more indispensable tool for users.
👉🏼Is Microsoft getting rid of Planner? No, Microsoft is not getting rid of Planner. Instead, they are evolving it into a unified work management solution that integrates features from Microsoft To Do, Microsoft Project, and Microsoft 365 Copilot. This new Planner experience is designed to cater to both individual task management and complex project management needs. Source.
The latest version of Microsoft Planner was officially launched in March 2024, bringing with it exciting enhancements like AI-powered Copilot integration and customizable fields. Looking ahead, additional updates are expected later this year, further expanding its capabilities. So, if you’re wondering whether the new Microsoft Planner is available—it’s here now and ready to help you streamline your projects like never before!
👉🏼Is the new Microsoft Planner available? Yes, the new Microsoft Planner is available within Microsoft Teams, with the rollout beginning in early 2024 and expanding to all users. It integrates features from Microsoft To Do, Planner, Project for the web, and Microsoft Copilot, offering a unified work management experience. The updated web version is expected to roll out in the coming weeks, with organizations in Targeted Release gaining early access. To use premium features like Copilot in Planner, users need a Planner and Project Plan 3 or Plan 5 license, with a 30-day trial available.
New Features of Microsoft Planner 2024
The new Microsoft Planner has introduced a range of exciting updates aimed at making task and project management more efficient, collaborative, and intuitive. With these improvements, Microsoft Planner 2024 is setting a new standard for how teams organize their work. Let’s explore the standout features that come with this latest release.
Better collaboration and task management
One of the key improvements in Microsoft Planner 2024 is its focus on collaboration. Teams can now work more seamlessly with features like task dependencies, which allow you to link related tasks and ensure smooth workflows. Additionally, the introduction of custom fields lets users tailor their plans to specific project needs, providing greater flexibility compared to previous versions.
The new Planner also includes advanced automation tools to simplify repetitive processes, making it easier for teams to focus on what really matters. These updates are designed to streamline teamwork and improve overall productivity.
Improved interface and navigation
The new Microsoft Planner boasts a refreshed interface that’s more intuitive and visually appealing. Navigation has been simplified, with better task organization and new visual elements like backgrounds and grid views. Users can also take advantage of new task types, making it easier to categorize and prioritize work.
Expanded analytics and reporting
For those who rely on data-driven insights, Microsoft Planner 2024 delivers deepened analytics capabilities. The updated platform includes detailed progress reports, improved Gantt chart functionality, and timeline views that allow users to track milestones and deadlines with precision. These features provide a clearer picture of project status and help teams stay on track.
Deeper integration with Microsoft 365 apps
The new Planner takes integration with Microsoft 365 tools to the next level. For example:
- Microsoft Teams: users can now create tasks directly from chats or channels, ensuring nothing slips through the cracks.
- Outlook: tasks can be generated from flagged emails for seamless follow-ups.
- Microsoft To Do: unified task management across platforms makes it easier to stay organized.
Additionally, the platform now integrates with tools like Loop and Viva Goals for even greater functionality.
AI-powered features
One of the most exciting additions is the integration of Microsoft Copilot into Planner. This AI-powered assistant can help generate plans, set goals, track progress, and even suggest adjustments as projects evolve—all through simple natural-language prompts. It’s like having a virtual project manager at your fingertips!
New tools for project coordination
Microsoft Planner 2024 introduces innovative tools like:
- Planner for the web: a web-based version that unifies work across Microsoft To Do, Planner, and Project for the Web while leveraging Copilot’s capabilities.
- Portfolios: this feature allows users with specific licenses (e.g., Project Plan 3 or 5) to group related plans into portfolios, track progress at a high level, and organize tasks visually using roadmaps.
- Project Manager agent: acting as a virtual project manager, this tool optimizes workflows by handling routine tasks so teams can focus on strategic goals.
Addressing past limitations
Microsoft has also addressed several pain points from earlier versions of Planner. For instance, users can now add custom fields for better task tracking and view version histories to monitor changes made to plans over time. These fixes make the new Planner even more reliable and user-friendly.
Availability and what’s next
The new Microsoft Planner launched in March 2024 as part of Microsoft Teams, with a dedicated web app rolling out later in the year. Additional updates are expected throughout 2025 as Microsoft continues to refine the platform based on user feedback.
If you’ve been wondering whether anything has replaced Microsoft Planner—the answer is no! Instead, it’s evolving into an even more powerful tool that integrates deeply with other services like Lists, To Do, Outlook, and Teams while retaining its core functionality.
👉🏼What has replaced MS Planner? Microsoft has not replaced Planner; instead, they have enhanced it by integrating features from Microsoft To Do, Microsoft Project, and Microsoft 365 Copilot into a unified work management solution. This evolution provides users with a more comprehensive platform for managing tasks and projects. Source. However, some users seek alternatives due to specific requirements or preferences. Notable alternatives include Nuclino, which offers a flexible platform for documentation and collaboration; Trello, known for its simplicity and visual task management approach; Asana, recognized for its extensive task management and workflow customization capabilities; and ClickUp, a highly-rated productivity and project management software.
How to Use the New Features of Microsoft Planner 2024
With the arrival of the new Microsoft Planner, users can take advantage of a variety of improved features designed to streamline task management and improve team collaboration. Here’s a detailed guide on how to effectively utilize these updates and integrate them into your workflow.
Step-by-step instructions for key actions
- Creating tasks
- Open the new Planner and select the plan where you want to create a task.
- Click on “+ Add task,” enter the task name, set due dates, and assign it to team members.
- Use the new templates for quick task creation tailored to specific projects.
- Using filters
- Navigate to the filter option in your plan view.
- Select criteria such as due dates, assigned users, or labels to narrow down your tasks. This helps in focusing on what’s most important.
- Integrating updates into workflows
- To improve collaboration, encourage team members to use the commenting feature within tasks for real-time feedback.
- Choose the integration with Microsoft Teams to schedule group meetings directly from tasks, ensuring everyone is on the same page.
Tips for maximizing new features
- Collaboration: make use of the new planner’s capabilities by assigning tasks based on team members’ strengths and current workloads. This not only boosts productivity but also fosters accountability within the team.
- Automation: take advantage of automation features to set reminders for upcoming deadlines or recurring tasks, reducing manual follow-ups.
Integrating Microsoft Planner 2024 with other applications
To maximize your workflow, integrate Microsoft Planner with other Microsoft 365 applications:
- Microsoft Teams: create tasks directly from Teams chats or channels, allowing for seamless communication and task assignment.
- Outlook: convert flagged emails into tasks in Planner, ensuring that important follow-ups are never overlooked.
- Microsoft To Do: sync tasks across platforms for a unified view of your responsibilities.
👉🏼Here is where you can learn more: Microsoft Planner in Teams for Task Management
Examples of using new features
Imagine a scenario where your team is launching a new product. With the new Microsoft Planner, you can:
- Create a dedicated plan with tasks for each phase of the launch.
- Use Gantt charts to visualize timelines and dependencies.
- Assign specific roles and responsibilities, ensuring everyone knows their part in the project.
Accessing the new version
The Microsoft Planner 2024 updates are now available to all users with an active Microsoft 365 subscription. To access the new Planner, simply update your application to the latest version through your Microsoft 365 dashboard.
If you’re wondering whether the new Microsoft Planner will be free, it is included as part of your existing Microsoft 365 subscription, so there are no additional costs involved.
👉🏼How do I get access to the new Microsoft Planner? Will the new Microsoft Planner be free? To access the new Microsoft Planner, use it within Microsoft Teams by adding the Planner app or via the web at planner.cloud.microsoft. It is available to Microsoft 365 subscribers with core features included. However, premium functionalities like Timeline, People, Goals views, and AI-powered Microsoft 365 Copilot require a Planner Plan 1, Project Plan 3, or Project Plan 5 license. A 30-day free trial is available for these advanced features before a subscription is required.
The Future of Microsoft Planner: What to Expect
Microsoft Planner has undergone a significant transformation with its 2024 updates, but the journey doesn’t stop there. The new Microsoft Planner is poised to continue evolving, with exciting new features and improvements on the horizon. Let’s take a closer look at what’s next for this versatile tool and how these upcoming Microsoft Planner updates will further improve task and project management.
What’s coming in the new Microsoft Planner?
Here are some of the key features expected to roll out in future updates:
- Smart backgrounds: soon, users will be able to customize their plans with dynamic, visually engaging backgrounds. This feature is designed to make workspaces more personalized and easier to navigate.
- Board view for my tasks: a new addition to the new planner, this view will allow users to see all their tasks across different plans in one unified board. It’s a game-changer for those managing multiple projects simultaneously.
- New planner tab in teams: to deepen integration with Microsoft Teams, a dedicated Planner tab will be introduced, making it even easier to manage tasks directly within your team’s workspace.
- Removing the default filter: based on user feedback, Microsoft plans to remove the default filter that automatically sorts tasks by due date. This change will give users more control over how they view and organize their work.
- Additional column customization options: the ability to customize columns further will provide greater flexibility in organizing tasks and tailoring boards to specific workflows.
How these updates will boost productivity
These upcoming features are designed to address common user pain points while introducing new ways to boost efficiency:
- Improved task management: with the board view for “My Tasks” and additional column customization, managing workloads across multiple projects will become more streamlined.
- Seamless collaboration: the improved Teams integration ensures that task management remains an integral part of team communication, reducing the need to switch between apps.
- Personalization: smart backgrounds and customizable columns allow users to create workspaces that align with their preferences, making planning more intuitive and enjoyable.
Integration with Microsoft 365 ecosystem
The new Microsoft Planner continues its mission of seamless integration within the Microsoft 365 suite. Whether it’s syncing tasks with Outlook or leveraging AI-powered insights from Copilot, these updates will ensure that Planner remains a central hub for managing work across applications like Teams, To Do, and Project for the Web.
User feedback and influence on development
Users have a vital role in shaping the future of Microsoft Planner. By sending feedback or suggestions directly through the app, you can help prioritize new features for upcoming updates.
To provide feedback:
- Navigate to the menu in the top right corner of your plan (next to “Share”) and select “Feedback.”
- You can also use the Planner feedback portal to submit your ideas or report issues.
Your insights are invaluable as they guide Microsoft in maximizing functionality and addressing user needs.
Looking ahead
As Microsoft builds on the foundation laid by Microsoft Planner 2024, we can expect these updates to roll out gradually throughout 2025. Each enhancement reflects Microsoft’s commitment to making Planner not just a task management tool but an essential platform for team collaboration and project coordination.
The future of the new planner is bright, offering users even more ways to stay organized, productive, and connected. Stay tuned for these updates—they’re set to make an already powerful tool even better!
An Alternative to Microsoft Planner: Virto Kanban Board App
While the new Microsoft Planner has introduced a host of impressive updates, it’s not the only option for managing tasks and projects within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem. For those seeking even greater flexibility and customization, Virto Kanban Board App offers a powerful alternative. Let’s explore how this tool can complement or even replace Microsoft Planner for certain use cases.
Why choose Virto Kanban Board?
Virto Kanban Board App is designed to provide a more customizable and visually engaging way to manage tasks and projects. Unlike the new planner, which focuses on structured task management, Virto Kanban emphasizes flexibility and adaptability, making it ideal for teams with unique workflows.
Here are some of its standout features:
- Flexible customization: tailor your Kanban boards to match your team’s needs. With options for custom columns, swimlanes, color-coded tasks, and condition markers, you can create workflows that reflect your exact processes.
- Seamless integration: like Microsoft Planner 2024, Virto Kanban integrates deeply with Microsoft 365 tools such as Teams and SharePoint, ensuring smooth collaboration across platforms.
- Better automation: automate repetitive processes like task assignments or notifications, saving time and reducing manual effort.
- Unified task management: combine multiple task lists into a single board view for comprehensive oversight of all your projects in one place.
How Virto Kanban Board works
At its core, Virto Kanban Board organizes tasks into a visual layout that’s easy to understand at a glance. Tasks are displayed as cards that can be moved between columns (representing different stages of progress) or grouped by swimlanes (e.g., by team member or project). This setup makes it simple to track progress and identify bottlenecks in real time.
Examples of layouts:
Project management: use templates to quickly set up boards for new projects, assign tasks, and monitor progress using built-in charts.
Agile workflows: visualize sprints or backlogs with customizable columns and swimlanes tailored to agile methodologies.
Team collaboration: add comments, attachments, and tags directly to task cards to keep all relevant information in one place.
Real-life scenarios where Virto Kanban shines
- Content planning: manage editorial calendars by organizing articles into stages like “Drafting,” “Editing,” and “Published.”
- Recruiting: streamline hiring processes with columns for “Screening,” “Interviewing,” and “Offer Sent.”
- Customer support: track support tickets from “New” to “Resolved” while maintaining visibility into response times.
Comparing Virto Kanban with Microsoft Planner
While the new Microsoft Planner excels at structured project management with features like Gantt charts and timeline views, Virto Kanban stands out for its visual-first approach and advanced customization options. Teams that require more flexibility in how they organize tasks may find Virto Kanban to be a better fit.
| Feature | Microsoft Planner 2024 | Virto Kanban Board |
| Task Views | Gantt charts, calendar | Fully customizable Kanban boards |
| Integration | Teams, Outlook | Teams, SharePoint |
| Automation | Basic | Advanced |
| Customization | Limited | Extensive |
| Ideal use case | Structured project management | Flexible workflows |
Getting started with Virto Kanban
Virto Kanban Board App is available as an add-on for Microsoft 365 users and can be integrated into Teams channels or SharePoint sites. To try it out:
- Visit the app store in Microsoft Teams or SharePoint.
- Add the Virto Kanban Board App as a tab in your workspace.
- Use templates to quickly set up your first board.
A free trial is available for those who want to explore its features before committing.
Final Thoughts
The new Microsoft Planner has arrived with exciting updates that enhance collaboration, analytics, and integration within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem. These changes improve the user experience and set the stage for future innovations. Microsoft continues to develop Planner, ensuring it remains a key part of the Microsoft 365 suite.
For teams needing more flexibility and customization, alternatives like Virto Kanban Board App are worth considering. Virto Kanban offers a visually engaging Kanban board experience that can be tailored to specific workflows, providing a more adaptable approach to task management.
Try out the new Microsoft Planner to experience its improved features. For a more visual and customizable experience, explore Virto Kanban Board App. Both tools offer unique strengths that can transform how you manage projects and tasks. Dive in and discover how these solutions can elevate your project management!
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