Microsoft MVP Launches Resource to Decode Ever-Changing Product Names
If you’ve found it challenging to keep up with the ever-evolving names of Microsoft’s AI products, you’re not alone. Microsoft MVP Loryan Strant has released a new website, "Let Me Correct That for You!", designed to clarify the confusion surrounding Microsoft’s frequently rebranded offerings. The site aims to help both fans and professionals within the Microsoft community navigate the maze of product names that seem to change weekly.
Understanding the Confusion: A Microsoft Specialty
Strant’s initiative comes in response to the frustration he’d observed amongst community members who often mislabel Microsoft products. As anyone active in the Microsoft ecosystem will know, the company’s penchant for rapid rebranding can lead to significant misunderstandings. Take Microsoft’s AI assistant, commonly referred to as Microsoft 365 Copilot. Initially branded as "Microsoft Copilot for Microsoft 365," it now shares its name with another consumer variant simply called Microsoft Copilot. Additionally, the previous name, Bing Chat, is yet another term affiliated with the evolution of these services.
"Every time a product name is altered, it feels like we’re thrown into a new naming challenge,” Strant commented. “It’s crucial for communication within the community that we get these names right."
Bridging the Gap: Terminology Misunderstandings
The site does not just clarify product names but also highlights terminology that often gets misused or misunderstood. For example, when discussing Microsoft’s SharePoint, the term "team" may refer to a specific site template within that product. Conversely, users may confuse this terminology with Microsoft’s Teams, where users often use the term "team site" more informally.
Strant’s site notes, "It’s in the team site" could spark confusion, leading listeners to misunderstand which Microsoft product is being discussed.
Another noteworthy mention is Entra ID, a term introduced after Microsoft transitioned from the former name Azure AD. This rebranding was largely part of Microsoft’s effort to delineate its cloud product from its Active Directory on Windows Server. “It’s been less than a year since the change, yet I still see people using the term Azure AD or variations like ‘Entraid’," Strant explained.
The Challenge of Language: More Than Just Names
When it comes to terminology, Strant also points out the misuse of terms such as "on-premise." For clarity, he emphasizes that "premises" refers to a physical property, while "premise" is about a conclusion or argument. "If you want to house your hardware on-premises, please remember to add the ‘s,’" he added.
Strant founded his website not only to prevent miscommunication but also as a personal project that appealed to his desire for accuracy in content. “As a neurodiverse person, I know how crucial it is to have clarity in communication. Errors are distracting, and I believe many share that sentiment,” he remarked.
A Call for Consistency
In a broader conversation about brand clarity, Strant suggests that perhaps it’s time for Microsoft to consider appointing a brand consistency czar. Such a position could help mitigate the confusion that his new website aims to address. To further this cause, he has proactively created a GitHub repository that tracks typos and incorrect logos across various Microsoft 365 services.
Currently easing into some downtime between jobs, Strant utilized his free time to create his earlier project, M365roadmap.com, which visually represents Microsoft’s strategic plans for its well-known Software as a Service (SaaS) offerings.
The Impact on Technology Enthusiasts and Professionals
The innovation behind "Let Me Correct That for You!" comes at a pivotal time in the technology landscape, where clarity in communication can significantly impact usability and user experience. With an ever-expanding array of products and services, it’s essential that tech enthusiasts and professionals alike remain well-informed.
As Strant’s website gains traction, it not only serves as a valuable resource but also fosters a more knowledgeable community. By encouraging users to engage accurately with Microsoft’s offerings, Strant is paving the way for a more cohesive understanding of technology as it continues to evolve.
For those intrigued by Microsoft’s rapidly changing landscape, Strant’s resources are indispensable. By sharing your experiences and thoughts on navigating Microsoft’s products, how do you think we can improve consistency in the technology sector?
Engage with the community in the comments below and share your insights on this pressing topic!
