MetriNote – Microsoft Introduces Places App for Coordinating on Hybrid Work

Author: Beth Schultz, VP of Research & Principal Analyst What's the news? May 13, 2024 – Microsoft has announced Microsoft Places, which it is billing as a connected workplace application allowing the means of better coordinating time spent in office with team members. Features include a location plan for space booking; team guidance for managers to share in-office requests; integration of Places data into the Microsoft Copilot artificial intelligence (AI) assistant so employees can get guidance on best days to come into the office, and why, as well as get scheduling help; desk booking capabilities; and more. In addition, administrators will be able to use Places to assess and optimize space utilization. Places features are available in Outlook, Teams, and other typically used Microsoft apps. Places, which is available in public preview, will be licensed as part of Microsoft Teams Premium. Copilot integrations will be available in the second half of 2024.