EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

The number of organizations paying for Google’s business services, known as G Suite, exceeds 4 million. Paying customers should expect to see a design overhaul by the end of 2020.

Recently, the company launched security updates for its business messaging, team channels and video conferencing tools. “Instead of learning another tool, we need the tools we already use to be even more helpful, and work together, in an integrated, intuitive way,” said Javier Solotero, VP & GM of G Suite. The upgrades will also help Google align with the rest of the market.

Admin controls, phishing protections and more support options were all part of the package. Additional updates and upgrades are expected soon. Third-party integrations with DocuSign, Salesforce and Trello have been announced.

Google also anticipates redesigning its tabs for Google Chat and Google Meet, with a focus on education customers. Given the modifications, educators state that they’re more inclined to use G Suite tools with students. It will be easier to collaboratively work on projects, and students won’t even need to leave the email interface. “…it’s safe to say that Google is now on a roll…” says one Forbes columnist.

For non-business Gmail users, redesigned services are expected to become available in 2021. The roadmap is still under development.

Will the integration of new features pose threats to platforms that provide similar high-quality collaboration tools?  Experts are undecided, and are weighing the pros and cons of G Suite advancements.

For more information on Google’s new tools and features, click here.