DeSL - Microsoft Planner Integration and Automation

Common Integration Use Cases Between DeSL and Microsoft Planner

• Product development task creation from DeSL milestones to Microsoft Planner
  When a new style, collection, or seasonal line is created in DeSL, key milestones such as concept review, sample approval, costing sign-off, and production handoff can automatically generate tasks in Microsoft Planner. This gives design, merchandising, sourcing, and operations teams a shared execution view without duplicating planning effort. Data flow: DeSL to Microsoft Planner.
• Sample review and approval workflow coordination
  As sample status changes in DeSL, Planner tasks can be created or updated for reviewers in design, technical, and quality teams. For example, when a fit sample is ready, Planner can assign review tasks with due dates and owners, helping teams track actions outside the PLM system while keeping DeSL as the system of record. Data flow: DeSL to Microsoft Planner.
• Issue and exception management for delayed product activities
  If a product development task in DeSL is overdue or blocked by missing data, an alert can trigger a Planner task for the responsible team member or manager. This is useful for chasing late approvals, missing BOM inputs, or unresolved supplier feedback. It improves accountability and reduces delays in seasonal critical paths. Data flow: DeSL to Microsoft Planner.
• Cross-functional launch readiness tracking
  DeSL can publish launch-related checkpoints such as final tech pack completion, supplier confirmation, and material availability into Microsoft Planner for broader business teams. Planner then becomes the coordination layer for commercial, operations, and retail readiness activities, while DeSL retains detailed product data. Data flow: DeSL to Microsoft Planner.
• Planner task updates feeding back into DeSL status visibility
  When teams complete tasks in Microsoft Planner, such as approving a colorway or confirming packaging artwork, the completion status can update corresponding records in DeSL. This keeps PLM workflows aligned with actual execution progress and reduces manual status chasing across teams. Data flow: Microsoft Planner to DeSL.
• Assignee and ownership synchronization for product workstreams
  Owner assignments in DeSL for product development activities can be mirrored into Planner so each team member sees their responsibilities in a simple task board. This is especially valuable for organizations that use DeSL for structured PLM processes but rely on Planner for day-to-day task management. Data flow: Bi-directional.
• Seasonal program coordination across departments
  For major seasonal launches, DeSL can define the product roadmap and key deliverables, while Microsoft Planner manages supporting tasks such as marketing asset preparation, showroom setup, and retail communication. Integration ensures both platforms reflect the same program timeline and reduces gaps between product development and go-to-market execution. Data flow: Bi-directional.