M365: Using Microsoft Planner with Microsoft Loop

Using Microsoft Planner with Microsoft Loop 

Microsoft Loop is a new app that enables flexible collaboration across different Microsoft 365 applications, including Microsoft Planner. By integrating Planner with Loop, users can seamlessly manage tasks and projects within their collaborative work spaces. This knowledge base article will guide you through using Microsoft Planner within Microsoft Loop.  

 

What is Microsoft Loop? 

Microsoft Loop is designed to facilitate dynamic and real-time collaboration. It consists of Loop components (blocks of collaborative content that can be shared and edited in real-time), Loop pages (flexible canvases where you can organize your components), and Loop workspaces (shared spaces for you and your team to work together on projects). 

 

Integrating Microsoft Planner with Microsoft Loop 

Setting Up Microsoft Loop 

  1. Access Loop: Log in to your Microsoft 365 account and navigate to the Loop app from the app launcher. 
  2. Create a Workspace: Start by creating a new workspace for your project or team. Give it a relevant name and description. 
  3. Add Pages: Within your workspace, create Loop pages to organize different aspects of your project. For example, you might have separate pages for planning, tasks, and progress tracking. 

 

Adding Microsoft Planner to Loop

To use Planner within Loop, you can embed Planner tasks and boards as Loop components in your Loop pages. 

  1. Open a Loop Page: Navigate to the Loop page where you want to integrate Planner. 
  2. Insert a Planner Component:  
    • Click on the `+` icon to add a new component. 
    • Select "Planner" from the list of available components. 
    • You may need to connect your Planner account to Loop if you haven't already done so. 
  3. Choose a Plan: Select the Planner plan you want to integrate. You can choose an existing plan or create a new one. 

 

Using Planner Components in Loop 

Once you have added Planner components to your Loop page, you can manage your tasks directly within Loop. 

 

Viewing and Managing Tasks 

  • View Tasks: The Planner component will display tasks from the selected plan. You can view task details, including due dates, assignees, and progress. 
  • Add New Tasks: Click on the `+ Add task` button to create new tasks directly within the Loop page. Provide the task name, due date, and assign it to a team member. 
  • Edit Tasks: Click on any task to open its details and make edits. You can change the task name, due date, assignee, and other details. 
  • Complete Tasks: Mark tasks as complete by checking the check box next to the task name. 

 

Collaborating in Real-Time 

One of the key benefits of using Planner within Loop is the ability to collaborate in real-time with your team. 

  • Real-Time Updates: Any changes made to tasks in the Planner component are updated in real-time for all team members. 
  • Comments and Discussions: Use the comments section within tasks to discuss details and provide updates. Comments are instantly visible to all collaborators. 
  • Notifications: Team members will receive notifications for task updates and comments, ensuring everyone stays informed. 

 

Customizing Your Loop Workspace 

Customize your Loop workspace to fit your project needs: 

  • Organize Components: Drag and drop Planner components and other elements to organize your Loop page. 
  • Add Other Components: Besides Planner, you can add other Loop components such as text, tables, lists, and images to enrich your collaborative space. 
  • Use Templates: Leverage templates for common project types to quickly set up your Loop workspace. 

 

Best Practices for Using Planner with Loop 

  • Clear Task Definitions: Ensure tasks have clear titles, descriptions, and due dates to avoid confusion. 
  • Regular Updates: Frequently update task statuses and details to keep everyone on the same page. 
  • Effective Communication: Use comments for clear and concise communication within tasks. 
  • Integrated Workflow: Combine Planner components with other Loop elements to create a comprehensive and organized project space. 
  • Monitor Progress: Use the visual components in Loop to track progress and identify any bottlenecks in your project. 

Additional Information:

  • Search or browse our online Knowledge Base
  • Call the CCRI IT Help Desk at (401) 825-1112
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