Episode 119 – The suite spot – Microsoft minus the mayhem

The Internal Comms Podcast

If the platforms you use at work were built by Microsoft, this episode is essential listening. Katie is joined by Alex Graves, Chief Visionary Officer at Silicon Reef — the people-first Microsoft experts — for a fast-paced, plain-speaking conversation on making technology work for people. Alex shares practical strategies for rolling out new digital channels on a shoestring — including what corners you can cut, and the one you absolutely must not: discovery. He explains why Viva Engage is a philosophy, not just a platform, and how it can break down silos, surface expertise and build genuine communities. Expect sharp insight on improving the often-fractured relationship between internal comms and IT, how to avoid information sprawl, and why early advocates, not all-staff rollouts, are the key to success. Alex also reveals underused Microsoft features — from AI agents that act as personal researchers to the future potential of AI-generated daily podcasts summarising internal news based on individual interests. Whether you're migrating from Workplace, refreshing your channel mix, or exploring Viva for the first time, this episode is packed with practical advice and fresh thinking. Share your thoughts on this or any other episode of The Internal Comms Podcast using the hashtag #TheICPodcast. Thank you for listening.