Microsoft Viva Engage (Yammer)

What differentiates Microsoft Viva Engage (Yammer) from other similar products?

Microsoft Viva Engage, formerly known as Yammer, integrates deeply with Microsoft's suite of productivity tools, especially Microsoft 365. It focuses on fostering internal communication and collaboration within organizations by creating a social network-like experience. Its integration with tools like Teams, SharePoint, and Outlook allows seamless file sharing, communication, and collaboration, which makes it unique compared to standalone platforms like Slack or Workplace from Meta.

What is your favorite aspect of this product?

The most appealing aspect of Microsoft Viva Engage is its tight integration with Microsoft 365, allowing users to transition smoothly between various tools like Teams, OneDrive, and SharePoint. This reduces the friction of switching between platforms and enhances productivity. The community-building aspect and the ability to foster open conversations across an organization encourage transparency and collaboration.

What do you dislike most about this product?

One of the downsides of Viva Engage is that its user interface can feel clunky and outdated compared to more modern collaboration tools like Slack or Discord. Also, its notification system can be overwhelming, as it often sends redundant alerts across different platforms (Yammer, Teams, etc.), which may become distracting and lead to notification fatigue.

What recommendations would you give to someone considering this product?

For organizations already using Microsoft 365, Viva Engage is a powerful tool for enhancing internal communication, especially for larger companies looking to break down silos. However, I would recommend careful management of notifications and training to help employees get the most out of the platform without feeling overwhelmed. It’s best suited for companies that value open, transparent communication across all levels.

What differentiates Microsoft Viva Engage (Yammer) from other similar products?

Stands out from other similar products with its focus on employee well being and productivity. It's features help employees set aside uninterrupted work time providing insights into into work habits and promoting balanced work environment

What is your favorite aspect of this product?

It's seamless integration and ease of use especially with with features like viva insight, viva learning and viva goals. The simplified interface allows for quick and easy reporting while viva learning resolves challenges in tracking learning on the job. Viva insights consistently brings a positive impact to my workday making it a standout feature for me.

What do you dislike most about this product?

Limited scope of music options for relaxation. The limitations of viva learning in supporting all learning platforms and the need for expensive extras to connect platforms are also drawbacks. It may also be deemed unnecessary fir this with limited knowledge and only provide a surface level introduction to its capabilities.

What recommendations would you give to someone considering this product?

I would recommend it's essential to keep Outlook calendar updated to fully leverage the benefits of viva engage. Also ensure that viva learning also supports all required learning platforms without requiring expensive add ons fir connectivity. Additionally take the time to explore the product thoroughly to understand it's capabilities and potential impact on productivity and learning.

What differentiates Microsoft Viva Engage (Yammer) from other similar products?

Viva Engage is deeply integrated with other Microsoft 365 applications such as Teams, SharePoint, Outlook, and Office apps. This integration allows users to seamlessly collaborate, share content, and access Yammer conversations within the broader Microsoft ecosystem.

What is your favorite aspect of this product?

ability to facilitate communication and collaboration within organizations. It provides a platform for employees to connect, share ideas, and collaborate on projects in a structured and organized manner. This can enhance transparency, foster innovation, and improve employee engagement within the organization.

What do you dislike most about this product?

While Microsoft Viva Engage integrates with other Microsoft products like Teams and SharePoint, the complexity of setting up and managing these integrations can sometimes be a barrier for organizations, particularly those with limited technical expertise or resources.

What recommendations would you give to someone considering this product?

Clearly define your organization's objectives and goals for using Microsoft Viva Engage. Determine how you intend to leverage the platform to foster communication, collaboration, and knowledge sharing among employees.