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23 I L T A N E T . O R G ILTACON 2024 Embracing the Monthly Channel Updates One of the core topics discussed was the adoption of monthly channel updates in Microsoft 365. This approach involves receiving feature updates on a monthly basis, as opposed to less frequent, more substantial updates. The panelists highlighted several benefits of this strategy: Incremental Improvement: Monthly updates allow organizations to take advantage of incremental improvements rather than waiting for significant updates. This ensures that users and IT teams can gradually adjust to changes without overwhelming them with major shifts. Enhanced Security: With rapid update cycles, security patches and enhancements are deployed more frequently. This proactive approach helps in addressing vulnerabilities promptly, thereby reducing the risk of security breaches. Feature Innovation: Organizations can leverage new features and functionalities as soon as they are released. This keeps the workforce equipped with the latest tools to enhance productivity and collaboration. However, the panelists also acknowledged the challenges associated with this approach, including potential disruptions to workflows and the need for continuous user training and support. Utilizing the Microsoft Message Center Another focal point of the discussion was the effective use of the Microsoft Message Center. This platform is crucial for staying informed about upcoming changes, new features and other critical updates from Microsoft. The panelists offered several strategies for maximizing its utility: Regular Monitoring: IT teams should regularly monitor the Message Center to stay ahead of updates and prepare accordingly. This includes understanding the implications of each update on their organization's infrastructure and workflows. Communication Strategy: Developing a robust communication strategy is essential to ensure that all stakeholders, including end-users and management, are aware of upcoming changes. This can help in mitigating resistance and fostering a culture of adaptability. Training and Support: Providing training and support tailored to specific updates can enhance user adoption and minimize disruptions. This includes creating documentation, hosting webinars and offering one-on-one support sessions as needed. Balancing Innovation and Stability A recurring theme throughout the session was the need to balance innovation with stability. While rapid updates offer numerous benefits, they can also introduce instability if not managed properly. The panelists shared their experiences and best practices for achieving this balance: Pilot Testing: Implementing a pilot testing phase for each update can help in identifying potential issues and gathering feedback before a wider rollout. This ensures that any bugs or conflicts are addressed proactively. 1 2 3 1 2 3 1

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