Even among calendars, collaboration exists just like between Microsoft Outlook Google, and Google Calendar. Managing your schedule across different platforms can be a challenge and that’s where how to share Outlook calendar with Google Calendar comes.
How comes? It’s possible to share your Microsoft Outlook calendar with Google Calendar, which will allow you to access view, and manage your appointments and events all in the same place.
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In this article, I will be discussing the different methods available along with helpful tips that will enable you to share Microsoft Outlook with Google Calendar. But before then, let’s briefly discuss why should your Microsoft Outlook calendar be shared with Google Calendar.
Why Share Your Microsoft Outlook Calendar with Google Calendar?
There are many reasons/benefits on you should share your Microsoft Outlook calendar with Google Calendar. Among are;
Centralized Access: Through the interlinking of both Microsoft Outlook calendar with Google calendar, you can view and manage your schedule from any device, whether it’s your desktop, laptop, phone, or tablet.
Improved Collaboration: You can be able to share your calendar with colleagues, family, or friends to stay on the same page and avoid scheduling conflicts.
Enhanced Functionality: Google Calendar offers features that are not available in Microsoft Outlook, such as task integration and goal setting.
Greater Accessibility: Google Calendar is accessible from anywhere with an internet connection, making it convenient for travel or remote work.
How to Share Microsoft Outlook Calendar with Google Calendar
There are different ways to share your Microsoft Outlook calendar with Google Calendar and these include;
Exporting and Importing Calendars
Through the export and import process, you can share your Microsoft Outlook calendar and Google calendar.
This method involves exporting of Microsoft Outlook calendar as a file and then importing it into Google Calendar.
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Even though the process is simple and a one-time process, it won’t automatically update changes made to either calendar. Below is the process involved;
Export the Microsoft Outlook Calendar
- Open your Microsoft Outlook calendar
- Click “File” > “Save Calendar”
- Choose the calendar you want to export and select the date range
- Save the file in a format compatible with Google Calendar (e.g., .ics)
Import the calendar into Google Calendar
- Launch Google Calendar either through the web or application
- Click the “+” sign next to “Other Calendars”
- Then proceed to select “Import from File”
- Locate the file you saved in the first step and click on “Open”
Note: This method will only import your calendar as a static snapshot. It won’t automatically update changes made to either calendar
Using an iCal Link
This process requires you to publish your Microsoft Outlook calendar online and then share the iCal link with Google Calendar.
This method requires an internet connection and will automatically update both calendars, ensuring you always have the latest information.
Publish your Microsoft Outlook calendar
- Open your Microsoft Outlook calendar application or the calendar webpage
- Click on “Settings,” and proceed to “View All Microsoft Outlook Settings”
- Select “Calendar” and proceed to “Shared Calendars”
- Among the calendars, choose your desired one and click on “Publish Calendar”
- Choose the level of access you want to grant (e.g., “Can view all details”).
- Click “Publish” and copy the “iCal (.ics)” link.
- Now proceed to add the iCal link to Google Calendar thereby following the below process
- Go to Google Calendar
- Click the “+” sign next to “Other calendars”
- Select “From URL”
- Paste the iCal link you copied in the first step and click on “Add calendar”
Note: This method will automatically update both calendars if there are changes in any among, but you may need to refresh your Google Calendar periodically to see the latest changes.
Third-Party Tools Usage
Through the usage of various third-party applications and services, you can synchronize your Microsoft Outlook and Google calendars automatically.
Most times, these tools offer additional features that include two-way syncing, resolution resolving, and customization options.
The third-party tools include;
CalenGoo: This tool has both free and paid plans and it is built with syncing features and customization options.
SyncGene: This tool helps to resolve any issue that might occur between Microsoft Outlook and Google Calendar and also provides two-way syncing.
Most of the listed tools have specific instructions for setting up and configuring them, so the best thing is to refer to their respective documentation for detailed guidance.
Also, both Microsoft Outlook and Google Calendar are free tools with basic syncing functionality.
Benefits of Integrating Microsoft Outlook Calendar with Google Calendar
1. Cross-Platform Accessibility
While sharing Microsoft Outlook Calendar with Google Calendar, you can be able to access your schedule across both and many other platforms.
It’s compatible with a Windows PC, a Mac, and a mobile device, which means you can view and manage your events without switching between applications.
2. Collaboration and Team Scheduling
In a collaboration journey, colleagues might be using different calendaring platforms.
So, the sharing of your Microsoft Outlook Calendar with Google Calendar will be beneficial for collaborative work environments.
3. Sync across Devices
Since almost all the methods of sharing the calendar with one another are synchronizing-enabled features apart from the export and import method, the integration ensures that any changes made to your calendar on one device are reflected on all devices.
This will be more important to users who use both Microsoft and Google services on various devices.
4. Backup and Redundancy
By synchronizing calendars, you create a backup of your schedule. In case one platform experiences downtime or technical issues, you can rely on the other to access your appointments and important dates.
5. Customization and Control
Even though both the platforms are of the same type, there are little differences in between and that’s why each of them can be used for customization.
Tips on How to Share Microsoft Outlook Calendar with Google Calendar
Even though I have thoroughly explained most things regarding Microsoft Outlook calendar and Google Calendar, still there are some additional tips that can guide a user to achieve the calendaring goal. These include;
- You have your specific need regarding both Microsoft Outlook and Google calendars, right? Then you can choose your preferred date and time scheduling platform and the one that meets your needs
- It’s important to set calendar permissions carefully. This will enable you to decide who you want to share your calendar with and grant them the appropriate level of access.
- You might notice time or event clashing on a particular calendar, try to address them promptly to avoid confusion.
- Keep your calendars updated regularly to make sure that everyone has access to the latest information; possibly there are people you shared the calendar with and that will you maintain consistent data.
- Possibly you are used to Microsoft Outlook calendar only and now you have access to Google Calendar; take advantage of the unique features offered by Google Calendar like task integration and goal setting.
Challenges and Considerations on Sharing Outlook Calendar with Google Calendar
While integrating Microsoft Outlook Calendar with Google Calendar comes with different kinds of benefits, it’s important to take note of potential challenges and considerations. These include;
1. Time Zone Differences
Due to a collaborative environment, like an organization that contains lots of colleagues from the world, there might be time zone differences so make sure that both calendars are set to the correct time zone.
This will help you avoid synchronization issues that may arise if events are created or updated in different time zones.
2. Third-Party Tool Reliability
Even though I include the usage of the third-party method for sharing calendars with another, always endeavor to do research before choosing a reputable option. Some tools may have limitations or may not be supportive in the long term.
3. Privacy Concerns
If you share details with colleagues, you must be always careful of the level of detail you share. You should try to avoid sharing sensitive information and maybe always review sharing settings to maintain privacy.
4. Consistent Updates
While you use both Microsoft Outlook and Google Calendar and maybe even both third-party synchronization tools, you should try to keep the platforms updated regularly and up to date to avoid compatibility issues.
Conclusion
Both Microsoft Outlook and Google Calendar are popular productivity tools that are built with robust features for scheduling, managing tasks, and organizing events. Microsoft Outlook Calendar is part of the Microsoft Outlook suite, integrated into the broader Microsoft Office ecosystem.
On the other hand, Google Calendar is a standalone application within the Google Workspace suite, accessible through a web browser or mobile app. So, their integration will give you more features of the combined apps.
Finally, whether you opt for manual sharing through shareable links or leverage third-party synchronization tools for a more automated approach, the key is to maintain consistency, stay informed about updates, and prioritize privacy and security.