If your business uses Microsoft Teams, you already know it’s more than just a chat app. But are you truly getting the most out of Channels and Tabs? These two features are game-changers for improving team collaboration, staying organized, and working smarter — not harder.
What Are Channels?
Channels are like focused spaces within a Team where conversations, files, and tools stay organized around a topic, department, or project.
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Standard Channels – Open to all members of the team
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Private Channels – For sensitive or smaller group discussion.
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Shared Channels – Collaborate with external users securely (great for clients or partners)
Pro Tip: Create channels based on actual workflows — not just departments — to streamline communication.
Why Tabs Matter
At the top of each channel, Tabs let you pin important tools and content for quick access. You can add:
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Excel sheets, PowerPoint decks, or Word docs
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A shared OneNote notebook
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Project boards from Microsoft Planner or Trello
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Websites, forms, videos, and more!
Pro Tip: Use the “Website” tab to pin frequently used links (like customer portals or dashboards) directly into your channel.
3 Ways to Use Channels & Tabs Like a Pro
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Onboard New Employees Faster
→ Create a “New Joiners” channel with tabs for HR docs, training materials, and FAQs. -
Manage Projects Clearly
→ Set up a dedicated project channel with tabs for timelines (Excel), task boards (Planner), and meeting notes (OneNote). -
Keep Clients in the Loop
→ Use shared channels with pinned progress reports and forms for real-time collaboration.
Need Help Setting Up Teams for Your Business?
At Tech911, we help small and medium-sized businesses structure their Microsoft Teams for clarity, productivity, and security. From custom setup to staff training — we’ve got you covered.