Despite its recent enhancements, access to Microsoft Planner remains limited, as individuals cannot utilize the tool with personal accounts. The pricing for the service is primarily aimed at organizations, varying from $10 to $55 per month per user, depending on the features selected.
Initially launched in 2015 as Office 365 Planner, this project management application underwent a significant redesign in 2024, integrating features from Microsoft To Do and Project. The updated Planner is now visually aligned with the Fluent design language used across other Microsoft products like Windows and Outlook, offering a modern interface and improved performance.
New functionalities include a task chat feature that allows users to discuss tasks internally, with notifications limited to those tagged in comments. Additionally, a Goals view has been introduced in basic plans, enabling teams to set objectives linked to tasks, although utilizing this feature currently requires a premium license.
Microsoft Planner's integration with Teams and other Microsoft services enhances its collaborative capabilities, positioning it as a strong contender against tools like Trello and Asana. However, the ongoing restrictions on individual access continue to hinder broader adoption.