How Smart Canvas Elevates Google Workspace

In 2021 Google released Smart Canvas - a tool created for a hybrid workplace that has since been widely adopted across a wide range of enterprises and industries. Additional Smart Canvas features were announced earlier in 2022. Smart Canvas is now used more than comments functionality in Google Docs therefore it makes sense to delve into the tool, what it is and, most importantly, what value it delivers to users and organizations.

What is Smart Canvas?

It is a collection of interactive, collaborative and intelligent features for using Google Docs, Google Sheets, and Google Slides. Smart Canvas is’t a new product; rather, it’s a “new product experience” that elevates and improves existing Google Workspace Apps making them more collaborative. [su_youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SDBbFETGiA4"]  

In Google’s own words, "Smart canvas makes it easier for people to stay connected, focus their time and attention, and transform their ideas into impact." 

Smart Canvas impact on Google Workspace

Many elements of Google's Smart Canvas improve our ability to use Google Docs, Google Sheets, and Google Slides. Some are minor, such as the ability to view Google Maps links from Docs, AI-generated Summaries for Docs, and formula corrections in sheets, but others have a significant impact on how people work.

1. Google Docs Checklists

To keep projects going ahead, create collaborative to-do lists in Google Docs. While working inside a document, hovering over a written assignment will offer to assign the task to someone on your team without going from Docs to Tasks, saving precious time. 

2. Smart Chips

We've all been there: you're working on a meeting agenda and then you realize you need to go look for files your team wants to review during the call. Smart Chips makes capturing files from within a Google Doc a breeze. When you type "@," Google will suggest files to add in your work, such as other documents, slides, and spreadsheets.

3. Google Meet Integration For Improving Collaboration On-the-Fly

Nothing beats a face-to-face meeting for projects on a tight deadline. Google Meet may now be used inside Google Docs, Google Sheets, and Google Slides. You can use your browser to present a document or spreadsheet directly from Google Docs, Google Sheets, or Google Slides.

4. Capture Google Meet Notes Automatically

This feature comes in the form of a Google Docs template. After opening the template, information such as who was present at the meeting, what was discussed, or any other relevant information listed in your meeting invite is added to the document. This also includes pulling potential action items from your invites.

5. Templates

Table templates take brainstorming and gathering feedback to the next level. By creating a topic-voting table using the Brainstorming template, team members can provide rapid input in the form and "vote" on tasks, ideas, notes, and other items. Smart Canvas also contains project-tracking tables, which allow you to track projects by entering milestones and notes, as well as email draft templates.   Many firms are currently attempting to adapt to a hybrid and remote work style. While some employees may want to return to the office, others may prefer to work from home. Google's Smart Canvas is a fantastic effort to address the issues that come with working in a hybrid environment, such as reduced team collaboration and a lack of information regarding projects and assignments.     DIVE INTO THE WORKSPACE start to transform your business with Google