Over time, most users will get a feel for when to use Teams versus Outlook. When you are new to Teams, you might not be sure which one to use. Here are some things to think about:
- For quick messages and notices, when you want a quick response, use Teams (examples - I would love your feedback on this document, I'm going to lunch, does anyone know if the basketball game is cancelled, what is the URL of the new web site, etc.)
- For lengthy messages that are not timely, where information needs to be communicated to a group, use email.
- If you need to collect read receipts, use email.
- If you are communicating with outside Butler folks who are not a member of a Team you are using, use email.
- If discussion on a specific topic needs to take place, use Teams.
- If you need to collaborate on a file, use Teams.
- If the recipients of your message will likely want to retain the message for later reference, use email.
Factors to consider when deciding between Outlook or Teams:
- Immediacy (Teams for immediate, Outlook for non-immediate)
- Persistence and Follow Up (more options in Teams than Outlook)
- Group Discussion (better suited for Teams)
- One-to-Few Discussions (can do in Outlook, more options in Teams)
Related Links:Teams and Outlook, Living in HarmonyTeams or OutlookTeams versus EmailTeams with Outlook: How to Use Them Together
