If you’re using Microsoft 365, you probably know the big names—Word, Excel, Outlook. But did you know your subscription includes powerful planning tools that can make your workday smoother and more organized? The best part: you likely already have access to them, and they’re just waiting to be used.
Let’s dive into three underrated Microsoft tools that can help you plan your day, your projects, and even your team’s workflow.
1. Microsoft To Do – Your Personal Task Manager
Microsoft To Do is a simple yet powerful app for managing your daily tasks. It integrates seamlessly with Outlook, so any flagged emails automatically show up as tasks. You can create lists for different projects, set reminders, and even break tasks into smaller steps.
Why it’s great for planning:
- Create a daily “My Day” list to focus on what matters most.
- Sync across devices—start on your phone, finish on your desktop.
- Share lists with colleagues for quick collaboration.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by sticky notes or scattered reminders, To Do is your digital solution.
2. Microsoft Planner – Visual Project Planning
Microsoft Planner is perfect for team-based planning. Think of it as a lightweight project management tool built right into Microsoft 365. You can create boards, assign tasks, set due dates, and track progress—all in a clean, visual interface.
Why it’s great for planning:
- Organize tasks into buckets for clarity.
- Attach files and add comments for easy collaboration.
- See progress at a glance with charts and dashboards.
If your team needs something simpler than complex project management software, Planner is a hidden gem.
3. Microsoft OneNote – Your Digital Notebook
Microsoft OneNote is more than just a note-taking app—it’s a planning powerhouse. You can create notebooks for projects, add sections for meeting notes, and even embed checklists and images. Plus, it syncs across all your devices.
Why it’s great for planning:
- Keep all your ideas and plans in one organized space.
- Tag important items for quick reference.
- Share notebooks with your team for collaborative brainstorming.
OneNote is ideal for those who like flexibility and creativity in their planning process.
Bonus: Microsoft Copilot – Your AI Planning Assistant
Microsoft Copilot is the newest addition to the Microsoft 365 suite, and it’s changing the way we plan and work. Copilot uses AI to help you summarize meetings, draft plans, and even suggest next steps—all without leaving your favorite apps like Word, Excel, and Teams.
Why it’s great for planning:
- Generate task lists from meeting notes automatically.
- Create project timelines in seconds using natural language prompts.
- Save time by letting Copilot handle repetitive planning tasks.
If you’re looking for a smarter way to plan, Copilot is your secret weapon.
Why These Tools Matter
Planning doesn’t have to mean juggling multiple apps or paying for extra software. With Microsoft 365, you already have access to tools that can help you stay organized, reduce stress, and boost productivity. The key is knowing they’re there—and using them.
So, next time you’re mapping out your day or coordinating a project, give these tools a try. They’re simple, effective, and included in the subscription you already have.
At BSC Solutions group we know how technology can boost productivity. Whether it’s making your daily workflows a little more efficient or saving time on repetitive tasks, we can help. To find out more about the productivity solutions that we offer, contact us today.