Microsoft Planner FAQs

Overview

Microsoft has updated Microsoft Planner to provide a single, unified planning experience across Microsoft 365. This update improves consistency, permissions, and integration while preserving existing task-based workflows.
Planners continue to support everyday task management and more structured project work. Most users do not need to take action.

 

What’s Changed

Microsoft has consolidated tasks and project planning into one Planner experience.

  • Planner is now accessed consistently through Microsoft Teams, the web, and SharePoint
  • The former Tasks by Planner and To Do app is now part of Planner
  • Existing plans, tasks, and notifications continue without disruption
  • No data migration or user action is required

This is a consolidation, not a replacement.

Creating a New Planner Plan

When creating a new Planner plan, users may choose one of two options:
Create a Standalone Planner Plan

  • A Microsoft Team is not required
  • IT automatically creates:
    • A Planner plan
    • A Microsoft 365 Group
    • A SharePoint site (Though may not be visible)

Create a Planner Plan Inside an Existing Team

  • Uses the Team’s existing membership and permissions
  • Integrates directly into the Team’s collaboration space

This approach ensures consistent governance, permissions, and storage across the University.

Why Microsoft 365 Groups Are Created Automatically

Planner requires Microsoft 365 Groups to manage:

  • Membership and access
  • File storage in SharePoint
  • Integration with other Microsoft 365 tools

Automatic group creation ensures that each Planner plan is configured correctly from the start and supports long term manageability.

Licensing and Feature Visibility

Basic Microsoft Planner functionality remains available with existing Microsoft 365 licenses.
Some users may see references to optional advanced features, including:

  • Planner Premium (advanced project capabilities)
  • AI or Copilot features (Currently not available for Students)

These features are optional and intended for more complex project scenarios.

When Additional Licenses Are Required

Additional licenses are required only if advanced features are needed:

  • Planner Premium → requires a Microsoft Project license
  • AI features → require a Microsoft 365 Copilot license (Currently not available for Students)

Most faculty and staff will not need these licenses.

Requesting Advanced Planner Capabilities

Users who require additional Planner capabilities and assistance should visit the Microsoft Planner service page in the Northwestern IT service catalog to review options and submit a request, as appropriate.
This service page serves as the central point of guidance and intake for Planner related requests.

 

 

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Microsoft Planner
Microsoft Planner, is a project management platform within the Microsoft 365 applications and add-ins that enables users to create and manage plans and tasks on various ad-hoc projects.