Microsoft has unveiled several new solutions in Teams and Viva designed to empower frontline workers, enhance job performance and improve workplace communication.  

The new offerings include: scheduled queuing for virtual appointments in Teams, which provides real-time updates on wait times, missed appointments and staffing delays; improved device management to secure and locate misplaced shared devices; and the Viva Connections app in Teams, which links frontline workers to company resources and news. Viva Connections integrations with Espressive and Workday will also help users access HR resources and tasks, such as payroll, time off and expense reporting. 

Microsoft has expanded its partnership with digital solutions provider Zebra Technologies to deliver the Teams Walkie Talkie app on Zebra mobile computers. It has also enhanced Teams integration with Zebra Reflexis, which connects the Reflexis Workforce Management solutions with the Shifts application in Teams.  

“It’s no secret that the pandemic is reshaping work for all workers, and at a faster pace than we have ever seen,” said Emma Williams, corporate vice president at Microsoft. “Empowering frontline workers remains essential for digital transformation. Together with our partners, we’re equipping frontline workers with tools that allow them to stay connected with their team and company leadership while concentrating on the customer or job at hand. If done well, we believe technology can modernise workflows and enhance job performance while also improving workplace culture and communication.” 

Microsoft Cloud for Retail will also be generally available on 1 February 2022, giving retailers the data and artificial intelligence to understand and improve the consumer shopping experience. 

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