Microsoft has released hybrid work environment-focused updates, such as 'Outlook RSVP' and 'Front Row' for its suite of workplace tools. Outlook RSVP now allows users to RSVP for an event in more ways than yes, no, and maybe. Now, when selecting "yes," the employee can select "yes, in-person" or "yes, virtually."
Microsoft's Front Row update is coming to Teams, allowing for a smoother separation between in-person and virtual meeting attendees. The update allows users to place the video gallery on the bottom of the screen instead of the top, which allows in-person meeting attendees to more easily interact with remote meeting attendees face-to-face. Lastly, Microsoft has released the 'Teams Rooms' update for Teams video conferencing. This update allows hosts to use a camera set up in a meeting room instead of a personal camera, which allows each of the virtual attendees to feel more connected to their in-person coworkers.
Hybrid Work Environment Tools
Microsoft Added Hybrid-Focused Features to its Suite of Tools
Trend Themes
1. Hybrid Work Environment-focused Updates - Opportunity to develop and market new tools and software that focus on optimizing the hybrid work environment experience.
2. Improved Virtual Meeting Attendee Integration - Opportunity to develop and market new tools and software that more seamlessly integrate virtual meeting attendees with those who are attending in person.
3. Remote Workforce Empowerment - Opportunity to develop and market new tools and software that empower remote workers and allow them to feel more connected to in-person coworkers.
Industry Implications
1. Productivity Software - Productivity software companies can capitalize on this trend by developing new features and tools that better support hybrid work environments.
2. Video Conferencing - Video conferencing companies can capitalize on this trend by developing new features and tools that facilitate smoother integration between in-person and virtual meeting attendees.
3. Remote Work Technology - Remote work technology companies can capitalize on this trend by developing new tools and software that help remote workers feel more connected to their in-person coworkers.