How to forward messages in Teams

The latest update to Microsoft Teams introduces a new feature—message forwarding within chat conversations. As outlined by Giuliano De Luca [MVP], Teams now enables users to seamlessly transfer chat messages from one conversation to another; something that wasn't previously possible in the application. This fresh capability is available in the desktop, browser, and mobile versions of Teams, significantly enhancing the app's functionality.

Message forwarding in Teams is a user-friendly process. It works in one-on-one and group chats but isn't available for channel threads. To forward, users simply select a chat message, click the ellipsis [...] symbol, and choose the forward option. The feature is rolling out gradually, with a full worldwide release expected by mid-February 2024.

When you forward a chat, Teams enables you to address it to individual users or groups, and even allows you to add your own message for extra context. Whether it's to a single recipient, a named group, or a set of recipients, the platform takes care of creating new chat threads if required. It’s designed to keep conversations flowing smoothly and ensures essential information is shared efficiently among team members.

• Individual recipients
• A named group chat
• A set of recipients
• A distribution list

Interestingly, if you forward a message to a recipient or group you haven't interacted with before, Teams will create a new chat for you. While forwarded messages don't leave a trace in the original chat, they appear prominently in the recipient's chat list, ensuring visibility. This enhancement in chat dynamics is a subtle, yet significant improvement to the platform's communication capabilities.

Compliance is also taken into account with the new forwarding function. Microsoft 365's compliance infrastructure treats a forwarded message as a new entity, creating records for each chat participant. This ensures all communications are properly logged and can be audited if necessary. The forwarded message's transparency is maintained, providing a clear trail of communication within an organization.

Overall, the ability to forward chat messages, presented by the Teams update, is a nuanced yet valuable addition. Although not a feature that has been highly demanded since the platform's inception in 2016, it certainly adds a layer of flexibility and convenience for users. This update reflects Teams' ongoing drive to enhance user experience and streamline organizational communications.

For more information on Teams, read further on Giuliano De Luca's insights.