7 HIDDEN Apps in Microsoft 365 that will EXPLODE Productivity

Jonathan, known as the Be 365 Guy, introduces viewers to Microsoft Lists, a lesser-known app within Microsoft 365 that can significantly enhance productivity. He explains that Lists can be a superior alternative to Excel for managing various types of information, such as inventory or customer data. The tutorial covers how to access Lists, create a new list, and utilize pre-built templates or customize lists from scratch. Jonathan demonstrates adding items to a list, such as asset details, and how to configure a blank list with various column types to suit different needs.

The script transitions into discussing Microsoft Forms, a tool that can be used to create polls, surveys, and questionnaires to capture information efficiently. Jonathan compares Forms to third-party apps like SurveyMonkey but highlights its advantage of being part of the Microsoft 365 suite. He guides viewers on accessing Forms, creating new forms or quizzes, and customizing pre-made templates. The tutorial also covers sharing forms externally, collecting responses, and creating forms from scratch, including adding various types of questions and configuring form settings.

Jonathan introduces Microsoft Whiteboard, a digital whiteboard tool that facilitates brainstorming and collaboration in a remote work environment. He explains how Whiteboard can replace physical whiteboards and flip charts, integrating with Microsoft Teams meetings. The tutorial demonstrates accessing Whiteboard, creating new whiteboards, and customizing them using templates or starting from scratch. It showcases adding text, Post-It notes, and doodling with various pen options, emphasizing the tool's flexibility and potential for enhancing team collaboration.

The focus shifts to Microsoft Planner, a newly announced productivity app that consolidates individual tasks and team projects. Jonathan explains that Planner combines features from Microsoft's old to-do planner, project management tools, and integrates them into one app accessible from Microsoft Teams. He outlines how Planner is organized around tasks and plans, with tasks sourced from private tasks, flagged emails, and broader project plans. The tutorial covers creating new plans, the introduction of premium options that integrate with Project for the Web, and the overall enhancement of productivity through Planner.

Jonathan introduces Microsoft Sway, a tool for creating newsletters and other engaging content. He notes that Sway is included in Microsoft 365, offering an affordable and easy-to-use solution for businesses. The tutorial walks through accessing Sway, choosing from various templates, and creating a basic newsletter. It covers adding text, images, videos, and customizing the design and layout. Jonathan also discusses sharing Sways via links or visual links and directs viewers to a more detailed tutorial on his YouTube channel.

The script highlights Microsoft Stream, an internal video platform included with Microsoft 365 subscriptions. Jonathan suggests using Stream for company events, training sessions, announcements, or recording Teams meetings. He demonstrates how to record screen or camera videos, edit them, and upload them to Stream. The tutorial also covers adding video settings like thumbnails, descriptions, captions, and sharing options. Jonathan emphasizes Stream's role in enhancing internal communication and training within organizations.

Jonathan introduces Microsoft Bookings, an app that simplifies the process of scheduling appointments and meetings. He explains that Bookings reduces the back-and-forth of finding mutually agreeable meeting times and can be used for personal or shared business booking pages. The tutorial covers creating booking pages, setting business hours, customizing appointment types, and integrating with Microsoft Teams. It also highlights advanced options like buffer times between meetings and automatic email reminders, showcasing how Bookings can streamline scheduling for businesses.