Microsoft introduces Places, a new app that makes flexible work hours and locations easier through integration with Outlook and Microsoft Teams.

Microsoft created Places to make scheduling office hours and interacting with colleagues easier. The aim is to provide an answer to the growing demand for flexible working situations. A Microsoft survey shows that almost half of employees worldwide want their managers to have more flexible work schedules or locations.

Places is a standalone application, but can also be integrated into Outlook and Microsoft Teams. This allows users to adjust their work schedules within the normal workflow. With features such as viewing colleagues’ schedules and rooms in the office, users can organize their time in the office more efficiently. The app also offers options for searching and reserving workstations.

Sometime in the second half of 2024, Places will also be integrated into Microsoft Copilot. Copilot helps users understand which days are best for them to come to the office and reserve spaces they need. These features are designed to optimize effectiveness and engagement in the workplace and promote the seamless integration of flexible working into daily routines.

Microsoft Places is offered as part of Microsoft Teams Premium and is available now. Copilot integration will have to wait until the second half of 2024. Be sure to check out Microsoft’s detailed blog post on all Places features.