Most Office 365 packages include Planner, a very simple and effective planning tool. Its main purpose is to provide clear task management visualization among users working in teams. While Planner is a simple tool, there are some tricks that can help you use it more efficiently.
Tip #1: Use Planner across devices
Since Microsoft 365 is a cloud service, you can access your files and plans from several devices and even work from a browser. With the Planner mobile app, you can manage your plans on the go. Don’t forget that Planner has great integration with Teams as well; in order to use it, simply add the Planner tab on your Teams’ channels.
Tip #2: Customize your plans and buckets
For recurring tasks, use labels to color code and have an organized visualization. You can also use emojis in the task or bucket title, as they show visually what each item represents even without the presence of text. Make sure to agree on the use of visual elements with your team to avoid misunderstandings.
Tip #3: “Get your priorities straight”
Each workday is characterized by a series of tasks, and they do not all hold the same importance. Mark your tasks with their priority to categorize your work. The options present in Planner are low, medium, important, and urgent.
Tip #4: Try out different view options
Board, charts, and schedule: these are the three viewing options in Planner. By choosing Board, you will see all your buckets and their respective tasks. With the Charts overview, your activities will be visualized with graphs to show your statistics and progress. If you prefer a calendar-like overview, the Schedule option is the one for you.
Tip #5: Add information and attachments to your tasks
Adding title, deadline and assignees is not enough to fully understand the meaning of a task. Adding a short description, checklists, useful links, and attachments will ensure that all team members are informed and will not forget important details.
Tip #6: Drag and edit your tasks
Remember to update frequently on your progress on each task. If you need to push a deadline or change priority, you can simply edit your tasks by clicking on them or through drag and drop across the calendar and buckets.
Tip #7: Outlook integration with iPlanner Pro.
If you are a fellow Outlook user and you would prefer to manage your Planner tasks without having to leave the app, make sure to try iPlanner Pro, our award-winning app that seamlessly integrates Outlook and Planner.
If you want to know more about iPlanner Pro, visit iplannerpro.iglobe.dk
