Google Workspace
In response to the growing demands of the hybrid work model, Google is adding more flexibility to the working locations feature in Google Calendar by allowing users to set their working locations for specific portions of the day.
Back in 2021, Google introduced the ability for users to indicate their working locations directly on Google Calendar, recognizing the need for better calendar management. This feature has seen various enhancements to facilitate better planning and coordination for both virtual and in-room meetings.
Users can now reflect their availability more accurately
The option to set part-day working locations will help users reflect their availability more accurately, keeping their colleagues informed about their location at different times of the day. This update will bring more transparency and ease in planning meetings and collaborations, especially in a hybrid work setup where employees’ locations can change throughout the day.
The working location feature is enabled by default for admins, though it can be disabled at the domain or organizational unit (OU) level if needed. For users, unless disabled by the admin, they can set their part-day working location by selecting “Working location” as an event type in Calendar, choosing a location, and optionally modifying the time, date, or recurrence by clicking on the time element.
This update is part of Google’s ongoing effort to enhance the Google Workspace experience, and it is available to Business Standard, Business Plus, Enterprise Standard, Enterprise Plus, Education Fundamentals, Education Standard, Education Plus, the Teaching and Learning Upgrade, and Nonprofit users.
Revolgy can assist your organization with expert Google Workspace implementation and management to optimize calendar and scheduling tools for your business needs.
Are you interested in Google Workspace news and updates? Head to our blog for more information, or reach out to us directly for a free consultation.
FAQs
Q1: What new capability was added to the working locations feature in Google Calendar as of July 2023?
Google Calendar users gained the ability to set their working locations for specific portions of the day, rather than just for the entire day.
Q2: Why was the option to set part-day working locations introduced?
This feature was added to provide more flexibility in response to the demands of hybrid work models, allowing users to reflect their availability and location more accurately throughout the day.
Q3: When was the original feature allowing users to set their daily working location first introduced?
The initial ability for users to indicate their working locations on Google Calendar was introduced in 2021.
Q4: What is the primary benefit of being able to set working locations for parts of the day?
It enhances transparency and simplifies the planning of meetings and collaborations, especially in hybrid setups, by keeping colleagues better informed about where someone will be at different times during the day.
Q5: Is the working location feature active by default for Google Workspace administrators?
Yes, the feature is enabled by default for administrators.
Q6: Can administrators control the availability of the working location feature?
Yes, administrators can disable the working locations feature at the domain level or for specific organizational units (OUs).
Q7: How does an end-user set their working location for just a portion of the day?
If the feature is enabled by their administrator, the user selects “Working location” as an event type in their Calendar, chooses the specific location, and then can optionally adjust the time, date, or recurrence settings for that location entry.
Q8: Which Google Workspace plans include this feature for setting part-day working locations?
This functionality is available for users on Business Standard, Business Plus, Enterprise Standard, Enterprise Plus, Education Fundamentals, Education Standard, Education Plus, the Teaching and Learning Upgrade, and Nonprofit plans.
Q9: Where can users find more Google Workspace news or seek assistance?
Users can visit the Revolgy blog for more information and updates, or contact Revolgy directly to arrange a free consultation.
