An Outlook poll just got easier – no more downloads, no manual installs, just seamless productivity. Microsoft is streamlining the polling experience across its platforms as part of an ongoing Microsoft 365 update.
At Commercial Networks, we’re committed to helping you stay ahead of Microsoft’s productivity enhancements. If you or your team use Outlook regularly, this update will simplify how you gather feedback and make decisions through email.
Say Goodbye to the Quick Poll Add-In
Previously, creating a poll in Outlook required downloading the Quick Poll add-in from the Microsoft Store. This extra step added friction to what should be a simple task. Now, Microsoft is rolling out a built-in Outlook Poll feature, available directly within the Outlook interface.
This change, tied to Microsoft 365 Roadmap IDs 61203 and 61372, is designed to reduce complexity and improve the user experience across devices.
Rollout Timeline and Affected Platforms
Microsoft began gradually rolling out the update in March 2020, with completion expected by late April. The change impacts:
- Outlook for Mac
- Outlook on the web (desktop)
- Outlook for Windows
Once complete, users will be able to insert polls directly from their Outlook interface, no add-in installation needed.
How to Access the New Poll Feature
- Outlook for Mac: Find Poll in the Message tab. Once pinned, it appears on the contextual toolbar.
- Outlook on the Web: When composing a new email, select the ellipsis (…) and then choose Poll.
- Outlook for Windows: Go to the Insert tab or Options > Use Voting Buttons > Poll.
What Happens to the Quick Poll Add-In?
Microsoft plans to withdraw the Quick Poll add-in from the Microsoft Store in January 2021. Users will receive a Message Center notification before the official retirement. If a user has already installed the add-in, they should uninstall it manually via the Exchange Admin Center. If not, Microsoft will automatically install the new built-in version when the old one is retired.
This automatic transition ensures minimal disruption and a better user experience.
What Should You Do Now?
- Inform your Mac and web Outlook users of the upcoming change.
- Uninstall the Quick Poll add-in manually to ensure the built-in version installs correctly.
- Encourage users to explore the new built-in poll option for faster, more intuitive surveys.
Ready to Upgrade Your Microsoft 365 Experience?
This small but powerful update is just one of many Microsoft 365 updates designed to streamline collaboration and enhance productivity. At Commercial Networks, we help businesses unlock the full potential of their Microsoft tools – from feature rollouts to license optimisation.
📞 Have questions about Microsoft 365, Outlook updates, or productivity best practices?
Get in touch with our team at 0333 444 3455 or visit our Contact Us page.
