I still remember the first time I tried to explain Yammer to a new hire. “It’s like Facebook for work,” I said, watching their face twist in confusion. And honestly, I couldn’t blame them. Between Yammer, Teams, and Outlook, it felt like we were asking employees to juggle tools instead of just focusing on their work. If you’ve ever tried to figure out which platform to use for what, you know exactly what I mean.

That’s why when Microsoft announced they were transitioning Yammer into Viva Engage, I was intrigued. It wasn’t just a name change - it was a complete rethink of how workplace communication should work. And let me tell you, as someone who’s been in the trenches of internal communication, this shift is long overdue. Hybrid work has thrown a wrench into team dynamics, with 51% of employees saying their workplace relationships have weakened. We needed something better, and Viva Engage promised to deliver.

So, what’s actually different? And more importantly, does it live up to the hype? I’ll break it all down for you - from the deeper integration with Microsoft 365 to the new tools that aim to make communication less of a headache. Let’s dive in and see if Viva Engage is the upgrade we’ve been waiting for.

Viva Engage v Yammer - What's the difference?

What Changed Between Yammer and Viva Engage

When Microsoft transitioned from Yammer to Viva Engage, it wasn’t just a rebranding exercise - it was a leap forward in how workplace communication fits into the daily rhythm of employees. While the heart of the platform remains in social networking, Viva Engage has stepped up its game by becoming a more integrated and dynamic tool for organizational communication.

Tightly Woven Into the Microsoft Ecosystem

The biggest shift? Viva Engage is no longer a standalone tool. It’s now seamlessly embedded within the Microsoft 365 suite. Back in the Yammer days, you had to manage it as a separate platform, which often felt like an extra step. Now, Viva Engage lives directly in Microsoft Teams, the hub where most employees already spend their time. No more juggling multiple logins or toggling between platforms - it’s all in one place.

And it doesn’t stop there. Viva Engage also syncs effortlessly with other Microsoft staples like SharePoint and Outlook. This level of integration creates a centralized workspace that feels natural and intuitive, making it easier for teams to stay connected without the hassle of jumping through hoops.

New Features That Go Beyond Basics

Viva Engage takes what Yammer started and builds on it with some powerful new tools. Think public meetings, webinars, and live events - all designed to make communication more interactive and engaging. But what really caught my attention is the way Microsoft has baked data analytics into the platform. These insights help HR teams and managers pinpoint what’s working in their communication strategies - and maybe more importantly, what’s not.

At Pebb, we’ve seen how these kinds of analytics can transform how leaders connect with their teams. It’s not just about sending messages; it’s about understanding how those messages land and adjusting in real-time.

A Friendlier User Interface

Here’s another win: Microsoft has revamped the user interface to make it more accessible. They’ve even rolled out a dedicated mobile app for iOS and Android, which is a game-changer for frontline workers and remote employees. If you’ve ever been frustrated by clunky designs that slow down adoption, you’ll appreciate this update. At Pebb, we know firsthand how much a simple, intuitive design can impact engagement, and it’s clear Microsoft took that feedback seriously.

With these updates, Viva Engage doesn’t just replicate Yammer’s functionality; it enhances it. The addition of a mobile app, streamlined design, and deeper integration into the Microsoft ecosystem makes it easier than ever for organizations to foster meaningful connections across teams. Next, we’ll dive into how these changes impact employee engagement on a broader scale.

How Organizations Use Viva Engage

Every communication platform faces one ultimate test: how seamlessly it integrates into the daily grind of work. Viva Engage has carved out its niche by excelling in three core areas that resonate with today’s workplace demands. Let me walk you through how organizations are making the most of it.

Employee Connection and Community Building

Viva Engage takes the foundation laid by Yammer and levels it up. Companies are using it to create unlimited communities tailored to shared interests, projects, or departments. And when I say "unlimited", I mean it - these communities can host up to 500,000 members in Dynamic Communities. That’s a big deal for large organizations or global teams.

But here’s where it gets even better: features like praise and recognition. These tools let employees celebrate wins, share milestones, and build relationships that stretch beyond their immediate teams. Why does this matter? Research shows that having strong connections with coworkers outside your team makes work more fulfilling and helps with managing stress.

What really sets Viva Engage apart, though, is its personalized content recommendations. Instead of bombarding everyone with generic updates, the platform curates content based on individual interests and activity. Employees can also use Topics (hashtags) to organize discussions naturally, making it easy to find relevant conversations and build expertise in specific areas.

Content Delivery and Knowledge Sharing

This is where Viva Engage truly shines. It’s not just a communication tool; it’s a knowledge-sharing powerhouse. Organizations are hosting Q&A sessions, sharing best answers, and posting storylines to ensure information flows smoothly.

What makes it click? The variety of content options. Sharing information feels organic rather than forced. Leaders particularly love the announcement feature - it ensures key messages reach employees both on Viva Engage and via email, so nothing important slips through the cracks.

"Viva Engage delivers high-value employee experiences by connecting leaders, communicators, and employees to build communities, share knowledge, and engage everyone." - Microsoft

AI tools like Copilot and Answers in Viva are game-changers, helping employees quickly find solutions and connect with the right experts. All this knowledge doesn’t just disappear into the void - it lives on in searchable communities, ready to help future employees learn from past discussions.

And for those big moments, organizations are using live events that can host up to 10,000 participants at once. Whether it’s an all-hands meeting, a training session, or a major announcement, Viva Engage handles it with ease. This capability fits perfectly into broader communication strategies, especially for large teams.

Remote and Hybrid Workforce Support

Now let’s talk about one of the biggest challenges workplaces face today: keeping remote and hybrid teams connected. Viva Engage nails this. After Microsoft rolled out new features in November, their own usage stats tell the story: monthly active users jumped from 38% to 71% by March 2023. That’s nearly double the engagement.

One of the standout features for remote teams is the dedicated mobile app. Unlike the old Yammer setup that required navigating through Teams, employees can now access Viva Engage directly from their phones. This makes it much easier for frontline and distributed workers to stay engaged and participate in conversations.

"We're creating an environment where deep, meaningful human connection is ambient. If we solve for that, we won't have this perceived dichotomy between flexible or hybrid work and employees who feel connected." - Chris Owen, Microsoft Viva program manager, Human Resources

The platform bridges gaps between departments and locations, fostering a sense of belonging that remote workers often crave. While Teams is great for project-specific collaboration, Viva Engage offers something broader: a way to build connections and community across the entire organization.

On top of that, the analytics tools in Viva Engage give managers insights into engagement levels and the effectiveness of their communication strategies. This data helps them tweak their approach to ensure remote employees feel just as connected as their in-office counterparts.

So, what’s the takeaway? Viva Engage has become a go-to solution for tackling modern workplace communication challenges. But here’s the twist - it’s not the only option out there. Depending on your organization’s unique needs, there might be other platforms worth considering. Stay tuned for more on that.

Viva Engage vs Other Communication Platforms

Viva Engage has undoubtedly made strides in workplace communication, but let's be honest - no platform is perfect. When you stack it up against other tools, gaps start to emerge, and that’s where Pebb steps in. Most communication platforms are great at one thing but fall short when it comes to offering a complete, connected experience. Pebb changes the game by rolling all the essentials into one cohesive solution.

Pebb: The All-in-One Communication Hub

Here’s the thing: juggling multiple tools isn’t just annoying - it’s inefficient. Viva Engage, for example, requires you to rely on a whole suite of Microsoft tools to get the job done. With Pebb, everything you need is in one place. Want to chat with a colleague? It’s right there with unlimited message history. Need to jump on a video call? No app-switching required - voice and video calls are baked right into the platform.

And let’s talk pricing, because this is where we really shine. While Viva Engage demands a Microsoft 365 subscription starting at $8 per user per month, Pebb offers a free plan for up to 1,000 users. For larger teams or those needing advanced features, our premium plan is just $4 per user per month - that’s half the cost of Viva Engage’s entry-level offering. With Pebb, your team gets access to work chat, news feeds, knowledge libraries, task management, and even unlimited clubs - all without breaking the bank.

The beauty of Pebb lies in its seamless design. Everything works together perfectly from day one, no extra tools or integrations needed. Up next, let’s dive into how Pebb stacks up against other popular platforms in the market.

Platform Comparison Overview

The workplace communication space is crowded, with each platform carving out its niche. But here’s the issue: most of them are specialists, not generalists. Let me break it down for you.

• Slack is the go-to for real-time collaboration, and it’s fantastic for small project teams brainstorming ideas. But when it comes to structured communication - like company-wide updates or building culture - it falls short.

• Workvivo focuses on employee experience and community building with its social-style interface. It’s great for fostering a sense of connection, but its inability to extend communication externally limits its versatility.

• Simpplr brings AI-powered content delivery to the mix, making it ideal for organizations that need advanced content management tools. However, it’s missing key communication features like email campaigns, push notifications, and digital signage.

• Viva Engage thrives in organizations already using Microsoft 365, excelling at collaboration and peer-to-peer discussions. But when leadership needs to deliver targeted messages or run company-wide campaigns, it often falls short.

Here’s a snapshot of how Pebb compares to these platforms:

What stands out here is how fragmented the market is. Slack is fantastic for collaboration but struggles with structured communication. Workvivo fosters community but doesn’t extend beyond its platform. Simpplr is brilliant for smart content delivery but skips over basic communication tools.

Pebb eliminates the need for patchwork solutions. Whether it’s casual team chats, company-wide announcements, or frontline workers needing mobile-first communication, Pebb handles it all. Plus, it keeps costs low and setup simple. Everything just works - together.

Selecting the Right Communication Platform

Picking the right communication platform isn’t just about checking off a list of features. It’s about finding a tool that fits your team’s needs, stays within budget, and avoids adding unnecessary headaches. I’ve seen organizations struggle with juggling too many fragmented tools, and let me tell you - simplicity is underrated. The best platform is the one your team will actually use, day in and day out.

When it comes to making this decision, most organizations weigh a few key factors: cost, features, and how easy it is to get everyone on board. For instance, Microsoft’s Viva Employee Communications and Communities starts at $2 per user per month (on top of your existing Microsoft 365 subscription). If you want the full Viva Suite, that jumps to $12 per user per month. Now, imagine managing hundreds - or even thousands - of users. Those numbers add up fast. So, how do you choose the right fit for your team? Let’s break it down.

Why Pebb Stands Out for Modern Teams

From what I’ve seen, the most successful platform rollouts happen when businesses stop cobbling together multiple tools and opt for a single solution that works seamlessly. That’s exactly why we built Pebb - to solve the chaos of fragmented systems.

One thing we know for sure? Cost transparency matters. While Viva Engage often requires a hefty investment in the Microsoft ecosystem, Pebb keeps things simple. We offer a clear, predictable pricing model with a robust free plan and a premium option that doesn’t sneak in hidden fees.

Then there’s the issue of integration. If your chat app doesn’t sync with your news feed or your video calls require a completely separate tool, adoption takes a hit. Pebb’s unified design ensures everything works together effortlessly, making it easier for your team to embrace the platform.

And let’s not forget mobile. In today’s world, a mobile-first approach isn’t optional - it’s essential. Whether your team is at a desk, working remotely, or on the factory floor, they need tools that feel natural on their phones. Too often, I’ve seen platforms that feel like clunky desktop software squeezed into a mobile app. That’s not the case with Pebb. It’s built with mobility in mind, so your team can stay connected wherever they are.

These are just a few of the reasons why Pebb simplifies decision-making for organizations like yours.

Practical Tips for Choosing the Right Platform

When you’re evaluating communication platforms, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Look at the total cost. Don’t just focus on the subscription price - factor in integration and support costs. Using three separate tools instead of one unified platform can quickly lead to unnecessary expenses and complexity.

• Prioritize user experience. Even the most feature-packed platform won’t succeed if your team finds it clunky or frustrating to use. Adoption is everything.

• Think about integration - but don’t overthink it. Sure, it’s great if a platform works with your current systems, but sometimes it’s worth switching to a tool that does everything well, even if it means leaving behind an outdated setup.

• Don’t compromise on security. Make sure the platform you choose meets your industry’s security and compliance standards. This is especially critical if your frontline workers are accessing sensitive information on personal devices.

At the end of the day, your communication platform should solve problems, not create new ones. Your team deserves a tool that’s reliable, affordable, and grows with your organization. Anything else? That’s just noise.

FAQs

What are the key improvements Viva Engage brings to Microsoft 365 compared to Yammer?

Viva Engage takes what Yammer started and amps it up by deeply integrating with Microsoft 365. This means users can now move more effortlessly between tools like Teams, SharePoint, and Outlook, making collaboration feel natural and part of their daily workflow.

What really sets Viva Engage apart is how it prioritizes the employee experience. By blending Yammer’s strong community-building capabilities with modern engagement tools, it creates a space where teams can connect more meaningfully. For organizations navigating the challenges of hybrid work, it’s a game-changer for building stronger relationships and simplifying communication across the board.

What are the latest features in Viva Engage that improve employee engagement and communication?

Viva Engage is stepping up its game in 2025 with fresh features aimed at improving how we connect and collaborate at work. One of the standout updates is the integration of community content directly into Microsoft 365 Copilot chat. This means employees can now enjoy more tailored, AI-driven interactions, making it easier than ever to find the information they need and work together seamlessly.

On top of that, Viva Engage is giving its platform a modern makeover. Older features are being retired to make room for new AI-powered tools focused on knowledge sharing and management. These changes are all about simplifying communication and strengthening connections within teams and across entire organizations.

How does Viva Engage improve remote and hybrid workforce communication compared to Yammer?

Viva Engage: A Game-Changer for Remote and Hybrid Teams

Let me share something that’s been a total win for our team: Viva Engage. It’s become a cornerstone for how we communicate, especially in a world where remote and hybrid work is the norm. What makes it so effective? It slots right into Microsoft Teams - the tool we’re already using every day. No extra apps, no jumping between platforms. Everything we need is in one place, which makes staying connected and building a sense of community so much easier.

But here’s what really sets Viva Engage apart: its features. It’s not just about chatting or sharing updates; it’s about creating meaningful connections. Features like leadership engagement let our leaders interact directly with the team in a way that feels real and approachable. There’s also a big focus on self-expression, allowing everyone to bring their whole selves to work. And let’s not forget knowledge sharing - a must-have for keeping everyone on the same page, no matter where they’re working from.

Compared to Yammer, Viva Engage feels like a step forward. It’s designed for the way we work today - flexible, fast-paced, and often from different corners of the world. It’s been a game-changer for us, and I can see it being just as valuable for other teams navigating this new era of work.

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