Creating a scheduling poll in Outlook Online using Microsoft Scheduling Poll

Questions

• Is there a Bowdoin alternative to a Doodle Poll?
• What is Microsoft Scheduling Poll?
• When should I use a scheduling poll in Outlook Online?
• How do I create a scheduling poll in Outlook Online?

Environment

This guide is useful if you are using Outlook Online and want to easily coordinate meeting times that work for everyone. Creating a scheduling poll is especially helpful when organizing meetings with multiple attendees who may have varied availability.

While Bowdoin doesn't have licenses for Doodle polls, Microsoft's alternative is a great option and something that is supported by IT staff.

Resolution

1. Start by logging into your Outlook Online account at https://outlook.office.com.
2. Click on the "New Message" button to compose a new email.
3. In the "To" field, type the email addresses of the people you want to invite to the meeting.
4. In the email toolbar at the bottom, click on the three dots (More actions) and select "Poll" from the menu.
5. A new window will open where you can enter the possible dates and times for the meeting. Fill in your proposed meeting slots.
6. Once you've entered all the proposed times, click Insert poll into email and then send your email.
7. Recipients will receive your email and can vote on the times that work best for them.
8. Once everyone has responded, you can check the results and choose the most convenient time for the meeting.