When we look at today’s workspaces, they seem crowded. They have everything, yet something seems missing.
Besides, if you are using all the Microsoft apps but your workspace is different, it is hard to organise everything.
However, Microsoft recently introduced us to Microsoft Loop to solve this challenge.
Microsoft uses Loop to bridge the gap between remote and hybrid teams. It enables you to work with colleagues in shared workspaces to manage tasks and projects that sync across Microsoft 365 apps and services.
What makes it unique among other Collaboration tools?
For starters, you can divide your information into smaller chunks and distribute only what’s required to the appropriate people.
Keep reading to learn more about Loop’s core features and capabilities, as well as how to use them.
What is Microsoft Loop?
Microsoft Loop is one of the best collaboration tools in Microsoft 365. It is a transformational co-creation experience that connects teams, content, and tasks across all your tools and devices.
Loop combines a powerful and adaptable canvas with portable components that can be moved freely and synchronised between applications.
Moreover, it allows teams to collaborate on thinking, planning, and creating.
This might seem like an old approach, but it really is a digital notebook you can keep to yourself for thorough planning – the twist is its project management capabilities.
You can share it with everyone on your team so you’re all on the same page (literally).
How does Microsoft Loop Work?
Microsoft Loop provides capabilities for co-creating content with your coworkers.
The Fluid Framework underpins the app’s functionality, which allows users to co-create and share content in real-time using digital canvases.
Microsoft Loop includes all you need to access these workspace options right in the app.
You no longer need to open other software such as Word, Excel, or Google Docs to collaborate on content and then paste the finalised files into your Teams conversations or Outlook emails.
Microsoft Loop has three key features: Loop pages, Loop components, and Loop workspaces. All three characteristics are intended to work together to facilitate project collaboration.
The Three Elements of Microsoft Loop
The literal meaning of the loop is “running continuously.” this is the purpose this tool serves for a business executive.
They need a full cycle of activities, from planning and brainstorming to the execution plan for every task.
Features of Microsoft Loop are designed to help you have it right. Here are the main elements of Microsoft Loop.
- Loop components are the content pieces that remain consistent across all platforms on which they are disseminated. Components enable collaboration in the flow of work, whether on a Loop page or in a chat, email, meeting, or document. They can be lists, tables, notes, and more, and you'll always be working with the most up-to-date information in your choice program, such as Microsoft Teams, Outlook, Word, Whiteboard, or the Loop app.
- Loop pages are customizable canvases in the Loop app that allow you to combine individuals, components, links, tasks, and data. They can start simple and develop to accommodate the size of your thoughts. Loop pages can be shared between M365 programs using a link or an embedded Loop component.
- Loop workspaces are shared workspaces where you and your team can see and organise material relevant to your project. This makes it simple to understand what everybody is working on and to monitor progress toward shared goals.
Integration of Loop with other Microsoft Dynamics 365 Products
The loop is ideal for Microsoft users as it integrates in a very simple way with all the relevant apps:
Microsoft Teams:
Loop pages and components can be readily shared and accessed within Microsoft Teams, facilitating easy team collaboration and communication.
Outlook:
You can use Loop to add Loop content to your Outlook emails. This allows you to communicate and view important project updates without ever leaving your email inbox.
Whiteboard:
Loop integrates with Whiteboard, making sharing and accessing Loop components and pages simple during collaborative whiteboarding sessions. It is ideal for brainstorming and visual cooperation.
Word (web):
When creating web-ready documents in Word, you can integrate Loop material. It enables you to collaborate on written content.
Planner:
Microsoft Planner and To Do are synchronised with the tasks you assign in the Microsoft Loop app and task list component. In this case, your list of things that need to get done is always up to date.
Copilot:
Loop is also compatible with Copilot. As you work in Loop, it provides helpful suggestions and ideas.
Limitations of Microsoft Loop
The biggest constraint of Microsoft Loop is that it is only available to Microsoft 365 commercial clients or that many of its functions are inaccessible to common users.
Everyone may use the Microsoft Loop app, and all of its fundamental capabilities, including mentioning other users, work well.
However, Microsoft exclusively targets Loop at corporate customers, and capabilities such as Loop components are not available in the consumer versions of these applications.
You also cannot add information from GitHub or Microsoft Whiteboard if you simply have a personal Microsoft account or a perpetual Office license.
This makes Microsoft Loop less attractive at times if you’re not a business customer, but the tool’s basic functionality remains quite useful, and it’s free to use.
Bottom Line
There are many means of real-time collaboration today; however, not all of them are suitable for Microsoft users. So, a loop helps businesses organise every communication and collaboration among teams.
Beyond collaboration, Loop integrates seamlessly with Microsoft’s suite, making it a perfect companion for businesses already using CRM and ERP systems. With enhanced connectivity, businesses can now more effectively manage customer relationships and enterprise operations.
To implement Loop the right way and understand how it can benefit your business, DHRP consultants are always here to show you the path to success. From collaboration to CRM and ERP implementation, we’ve got you covered. Contact us for more!
