Microsoft Teams is Office’s answer to productivity chat apps like Slack. When used correctly, it can be an effective coordination tool for both individuals and organizations. Here’s what it is and how to use it.

Microsoft Teams is a productivity, chat, and coordination app that’s available as part of Microsoft 365, the online Office product suite, and also as a standalone product. You don’t need Microsoft 365 to use Teams, although some features require you to download it.

Microsoft Teams is available as a standalone application that you can download, and as a web app that you sign in with your Microsoft account and use through a browser. It lets you share files via OneDrive, chat with members of groups you create, and otherwise coordinate your efforts.

Small business owners might want Microsoft Teams Essentials, a slightly stripped-down version of the platform. Features include 30 hours of group calling per month, shared calendars, chat, and file sharing for a lower monthly price than the regular offering.