Microsoft Teams, Microsoft Teams (New), Microsoft 365 Chat, and Microsoft Teams (Work & School) - Are These All the Same?!
Kas Nowicka Thu Jul 18 2024 8 min read Microsoft Teams, Microsoft Teams (New), Microsoft 365 Chat, and Microsoft Teams (Work & School) - Are These All the Same?!
TL;DR - not quite
Microsoft Teams, Microsoft Teams (New), Microsoft 365 Chat, and Microsoft Teams for work and school are different tools within the Microsoft 365 suite designed for specific purposes. While they share some features, each version offers unique functionalities tailored for different user needs, such as general collaboration, enhanced performance, quick communication, and specialized business or educational use.
More details are provided in the article below.
Introduction
For someone who hasn’t been around M365 for a while, navigating through the various communication tools within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem can be confusing… I decided to write this article and hopefully clarify the distinctions between Microsoft Teams, the new version of Microsoft Teams, Microsoft 365 Chat, and Microsoft Teams for work and school. Each of these sound pretty much the same, especially to those non-technical users, but different “versions”. of Teams actually serve unique purposes and offers distinct features
Even if they sound similar, it might be confusing which service you are or should be using to get the advantage of some features or simply trying to find functionality you’ve heard of, yet unable to locate. For example, scheduling sending messages in Teams Chat will work in a Work/Business account but not in the free Teams version. More examples of exclusive features of each Teams tool are detailed below.
(“Classic”) Microsoft Teams: The Collaborative Powerhouse
Microsoft Teams is the core collaboration hub within Microsoft 365, integrating chat, video conferencing, file sharing, and app integration. Since its launch in 2017, Teams has become essential for remote work and digital collaboration.
Key Features:
- Chat and Channels: Persistent chat in both team channels and private messages.
- Meetings and Calls: Video conferencing, screen sharing, and audio calls.
- File Sharing: Integration with OneDrive and SharePoint for collaborative document editing and storage.
- App Integrations: Supports a wide range of integrations with Microsoft apps like Planner, Power BI, and thousands of third-party applications.
Specific Features of “Classic” Microsoft Teams:
- Together Mode: Places participants in a shared background, such as an auditorium.
- Meeting Recap: Provides summaries of meeting recordings, transcripts, and notes.
- Shifts: A scheduling tool for managing shift workers.
How do you log in to “classic” Microsoft Teams:
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Single Sign-On (SSO) | You log in using your Microsoft 365 credentials, simplifying access across services. |
| Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) | Extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone, in addition to the password. |
| Personal and Work Accounts | Supports both personal and work accounts on mobile devices and desktop applications. |
Pricing:
| Plan | Description |
|---|---|
| Microsoft Teams Free | Basic functionality with limited features, suitable for small teams or personal use. |
| Paid Plans | Available through Microsoft 365 Business, Enterprise, Education, Government, and Non-Profit plans, which include additional storage, advanced meeting features, and enterprise-grade security |
Exclusive Features:
- Scheduling Messages: Available in business or enterprise accounts but not in the free version.
- Enhanced Meeting Options: Advanced meeting features like breakout rooms and recording transcripts.
Microsoft Teams (New): Enhanced Performance and Usability?
The new version of Microsoft Teams, often referred to as Teams 2.0, is a significant upgrade from the original platform. This version offers a more efficient, faster, and user-friendly experience, leveraging advanced web technologies.
Promissed enhancements:
- Performance: Faster load times, smoother interactions, and reduced memory usage, although many users and admins report otherwise.
- Simplified UI: A more intuitive and streamlined user interface - again, that’s a relative opinion.
- Enhanced Collaboration: Improved real-time collaboration features and better file-sharing capabilities.
- Deeper Integration: Enhanced integration with Microsoft 365 apps and services.
Specific Features:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Multi-Account Support | Allows users to switch between different Teams accounts without logging out. |
| Offline Mode | Enables users to view chat messages and compose responses even when they are not connected to the internet. |
| Fluid Components | Real-time collaboration features that allow users to create and edit content across various applications seamlessly. |
Logging In:
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Same as Microsoft Teams | Utilizes the same login mechanisms, including support for SSO and MFA. |
| Optimized Experience | Improved login speed and reliability. |
Pricing:
| Plan | Description |
|---|---|
| Included with Microsoft 365 Plans | Available at no additional cost to users with existing Microsoft 365 subscriptions. |
Exclusive Features:
- Fluid Components: Enhanced real-time collaboration available only in the new Teams.
- Offline Mode: Ability to work offline and sync when online.
Microsoft 365 Chat: what is that?
Microsoft 365 Chat is designed for quick and focused communication within the Microsoft 365 suite. It integrates directly with other Office applications, making it easy to transition from email threads to real-time chats.
Key Features:
- Seamless Transition: Easily switch from Outlook email conversations to chat.
- Focused Interface: A streamlined interface for quick, efficient communication.
- Integration with Office Apps: Directly integrates with apps like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for in-context collaboration.
- Accessibility: Embedded within Microsoft 365 apps, reducing the need for switching contexts.
Specific Features:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Message Pinning | Pin important messages for quick access. |
| In-Line Replies | Respond directly to specific messages within a thread for clearer communication. |
| Integration with Microsoft To Do | Create tasks directly from chat messages, enhancing productivity. |
Logging In:
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Microsoft Account Required | Users must log in with their Microsoft 365 credentials. |
| Part of Microsoft 365 Suite | Typically accessed through integrated Office applications. |
Pricing:
| Plan | Description |
|---|---|
| Included with Microsoft 365 Plans | No additional cost for users with Microsoft 365 subscriptions. |
Exclusive Features:
- Integration with Office Apps: Seamless integration specific to Microsoft 365.
- Task Creation: Directly create tasks from chats, not available in other versions.
Microsoft Teams (Work & School): Tailored Solutions
Microsoft Teams for Work and School is specifically configured to meet the needs of businesses and educational institutions. This version includes additional features and configurations to support enterprise and educational use cases.
Features for Work:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Advanced Security and Compliance | Enterprise-grade security features and compliance with industry standards. |
| Integration with Enterprise Tools | Works seamlessly with enterprise tools like Azure Active Directory and Microsoft Endpoint Manager. |
| Enhanced Meeting Capabilities | Includes features like breakout rooms, live events, and webinars. |
Specific Features for Work:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| eDiscovery | Advanced search capabilities for compliance and legal investigations. |
| Data Loss Prevention (DLP) | Protects sensitive information from being shared inappropriately. |
| Direct Routing | Allows businesses to connect their telephony systems with Teams for integrated calling. |
Features for School:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Classroom Management | Tools for managing classes, assignments, and grading. |
| Student Engagement | Features to enhance student engagement, including quizzes and polls. |
| LMS Integration | Seamless integration with Learning Management Systems (LMS) for streamlined educational workflows. |
Specific Features for School:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Assignments | Create, distribute, and grade assignments. |
| Reading Progress | Helps students improve their reading skills through personalized assignments. |
| Insights | Provides analytics on student engagement and performance. |
Logging In:
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Work Accounts | Requires a Microsoft 365 work account provided by the organization. |
| School Accounts | Requires a Microsoft 365 school account provided by the educational institution. |
| Multi-Factor Authentication | Strongly recommended for added security, especially for administrative roles. |
Pricing:
| Plan | Description |
|---|---|
| Microsoft 365 Education Plans | Includes specific features for educational institutions. |
| Microsoft 365 Business and Enterprise Plans | Includes enterprise features tailored for business use. |
Exclusive Features:
- Classroom Management Tools: Specific to educational accounts.
- Advanced Security Features: Tailored for enterprise needs.
Tips for Non-Technical Users
When navigating the complexities of these Microsoft platforms, it’s essential to understand some key concepts and recommendations.
Single Sign-On (SSO) allows you to access multiple applications with one set of login credentials. This means you can use your Microsoft account to log in to Teams, Outlook, and other Microsoft services without needing separate usernames and passwords for each. This simplifies the login process and enhances security.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is an extra security layer that requires a second form of verification in addition to your password. This could be a code sent to your phone or an approval from an authentication app. Setting up MFA protects your account from unauthorized access, ensuring that even if someone steals your password, they won’t be able to log in without the second form verification.
Staying updated is crucial. Keep your Teams application updated and ensure you have the latest features and security patches. Enabling automatic updates on your device or regularly checking for updates through the app store or software settings can help you stay secure.
Leveraging tutorials and support is vital. Microsoft offers a wealth of resources, including tutorials and support articles, to help you make the most of Teams. Visiting the Microsoft Support website or the Help section within Teams provides guides on using different features, and reaching out to your IT department for help can resolve any issues you encounter.
Exploring free options is beneficial, especially for small teams or personal use. Microsoft Teams offers a free version with basic features, which can be a good starting point. Trying the free version allows you to see if it meets your needs before committing to a paid plan. The free version includes chat, video calls, and limited app integrations.
Understanding limitations is also essential. Free versions of Teams and basic plans come with limitations, such as reduced storage and fewer administrative tools. Evaluating your needs and considering upgrading to a paid plan if you require more advanced features like increased storage, advanced security, and administrative capabilities can ensure you have the right tools for your work.
By understanding the differences between these platforms, their unique features, and login methods, you can make informed decisions about which tool best suits your needs. For more detailed information and the latest updates, visit the official Microsoft Teams pages on the Microsoft website.
Conclusion
Understanding the small yet relevant different versions of Microsoft Teams can seem daunting, but understanding the specific functionalities and features of each can help you choose the right tool for your needs. Whether you’re using the standard Microsoft Teams for general collaboration, the new Teams 2.0 for enhanced performance, Microsoft 365 Chat for streamlined communication, or Teams for Work and School for tailored solutions, knowing the strengths and limitations of each version is crucial. Leveraging the right version of Teams can significantly enhance your productivity and collaboration efforts.
For more information, support, and tutorials, visit the Microsoft Support website and stay updated with the latest features and best practices to maximize your Microsoft Teams experience.
Ciao,
Kas