Taking a Holistic Approach to Collaboration
Workers have quickly become familiar with video meetings. The technology once reserved for dispersed teams or the occasional work-from-home day is now deeply integrated into our workplace communications.
“There’s no question that the PC has become mission-critical during this pandemic across work, school and life to sustain productivity in a remote everything world,” Nadella said. “We think about productivity holistically, understanding how someone spends their time, who they work with and what content they create, and use these signals to create value for individuals and their organizations.”
This has led to enhancements within Teams, such as more deeply integrated whiteboarding and new video meeting background possibilities. For example, users will be able to put the faces of everyone in the meeting around a conference room table, harkening back to the days when large groups would meet in person and helping cut down on video meeting fatigue.
Looking at the worker holistically is a common thread throughout Microsoft’s new features. In Teams, users will be able to have a “virtual commute” to help mentally prepare for the day, and then unwind when the day is finished. Microsoft has also partnered with Headspace to help workers avoid burnout.
“Employees will receive insights tailored to their role along with recommended actions, making it easier to change habits,” Nadella said. “Mindfulness and well-being are something we are seeking during these times. The research on the benefits of mindfulness are so clear, but now it’s imperative.”
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