Microsoft Teams

Microsoft_Office_Teams_(2018–present)

Microsoft Teams is a proprietary software platform developed by Microsoft that combines workspace chat, video conferencing, file storage, and application integration. The service integrates with the Microsoft 365 subscription office productivity suite and features extensions that can integrate with non-Microsoft products.

History

Microsoft Teams was announced at an event in New York, and was launched worldwide on March 14, 2017. It was created to compete with similar services like Slack, which gained popularity in the workplace communication market.

Features

Microsoft Teams offers a variety of features designed to facilitate collaboration and communication within organizations:

• **Chat**: Teams provides both one-on-one and group chat capabilities. Users can share files, images, and other media within the chat.
• **Channels**: Teams are divided into channels, which can be organized by topic, department, or project. Each channel can host conversations, files, and other resources.
• **Meetings**: Teams supports video and audio meetings, with features like screen sharing, meeting recording, and live captions.
• **File Sharing**: Integration with OneDrive and SharePoint allows users to share and collaborate on files directly within Teams.
• **App Integrations**: Teams supports integration with a wide range of third-party applications, as well as custom apps developed using the Microsoft Teams API.

Usage

Microsoft Teams is used by a wide range of organizations, from small businesses to large enterprises, as well as educational institutions. It has become particularly popular for remote work and distance learning, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Security and Compliance

Microsoft Teams includes various security and compliance features, such as data encryption, multi-factor authentication, and compliance with standards like GDPR and HIPAA.

Competitors

Microsoft Teams competes with several other collaboration tools, including:

• Slack
• Zoom
• Google Meet
• Cisco Webex

Related Pages

• Microsoft 365
• OneDrive
• SharePoint
• Slack (software)
• Zoom Video Communications
• Google Workspace
• Cisco Webex

See Also

• Skype for Business
• Microsoft Office
• Remote work
• Distance education