Microsoft announced plans for the new app during the unveiling of a new digital skills initiative according to a ZDNet blog post. Officials demonstrated the new Teams Learning app during the event. “Just as companies today have a system of engagement for customers with CRM technology and a system of record with ERP, they will need a system of learning,” said Microsoft’s president and lead counsel, Brad Smith, in a blog post. Microsoft is looking to expand Teams’ already large footprint further, by adding online learning to its current chat, calling, collaboration, and other functionality. Microsoft’s goal is to use Teams as a way to host a continuous feedback loop between work, skills, and learning, officials said. The coming learning app will allow employers to integrate content from LinkedIn Learning, Microsoft Learn, a customer’s own content base, and other providers in a single place. Microsoft Learn is Microsoft’s site for free, self-paced educational content for Microsoft products and services, while LinkedIn Learning is more about courses taught by industry experts on a variety of technical topics. The content managed by the new Teams learning app can include anything from instructor-led training to shorter “micro-learning” content. The learning app will enable managers to assign and track learning progress, and it will help employees earn certifications and recognition.
