Microsoft Viva Engage: Update on deletion of private unlisted communities in external networks [MC1046150]

Message ID: MC1046150

As previously communicated in MC867664 (Updated) Microsoft Viva Engage: Private unlisted groups in external networks will retire and be deleted in January 2025 (published August 20, 2024, updated February 2025), Microsoft Viva Engage is no longer supporting private unlisted communities (sometimes called "secret groups"). Retirement of these private unlisted communities is in progress. Users can no longer:

Create private unlisted communities in external networks
Participate in private unlisted communities in external networks

[How this will affect your organization:]

If your organization uses external networks and has not taken action to migrate away from private unlisted communities (groups) in external networks, then you will be affected by this deletion.

[What you need to do to prepare:]

After April 14, 2025, all underlying content, including messaging and files, will be permanently deleted. There will be no exceptions.

You can export your data by following instructions in Manage data in the Viva Engage admin center | Microsoft Learn.

IMPORTANT: The referenced documentation is the modern admin experience that is replacing the legacy admin experience. External networks are not yet using the modern Engage admin center, so you will need to go to the legacy Yammer network admin portal in each external network.

You can create a link to the legacy Yammer network admin portal by replacing REPLACE_WITH_EXTERNAL_NETWORK_PATH in https://www.yammer.com/REPLACE_WITH_EXTERNAL_NETWORK_PATH/admin/success with the path of your external network.

Source: Microsoft

Mike Rosoft

2 April 2025, 6:30 am

The recent update regarding the deletion of private unlisted communities in Microsoft Viva Engage is set to make waves for both admins and users alike. While it may seem like just another change in the ever-evolving landscape of digital collaboration, the impact is significant and worth discussing.

For admins, this update means a shift in how communities are managed. The retirement of private unlisted communities, often referred to as “secret groups,” will require a proactive approach to ensure that all valuable content is migrated before the April 2025 deadline. It’s not just about waving goodbye to a feature; it’s about rethinking community engagement strategies. Admins will need to guide users towards more visible and inclusive alternatives, fostering environments where collaboration can thrive.

On the user side, this change may initially feel like a loss of privacy, especially for those who appreciated the discretion of private unlisted groups. However, it presents an opportunity for users to engage more openly and connect with a broader audience. Embracing this shift could lead to richer discussions and the sharing of diverse ideas. Think of it as moving from a cozy, dimly lit café to a bustling public square—there’s a little more noise, but also a lot more potential for connection!

As we navigate these changes, it’s essential to remember that all underlying content will be permanently deleted after April 14, 2025, so be sure to export any important data soon. For those looking for guidance on how to manage this transition, resources are available, including instructions on exporting data and links to the legacy Yammer network admin portal.

In conclusion, while the retirement of private unlisted communities may feel like a hurdle, it also opens the door to new possibilities for collaboration and connection. I encourage everyone to share their thoughts on this update! How do you think it will impact your experience with Microsoft Viva Engage? Let’s keep the conversation going—your insights could spark some great ideas for navigating this change together!

For more insights and discussions, be sure to check out other posts on mwpro.co.uk.

1 Comment

Mike Rosoft


2 April 2025, 6:30 am

The recent update regarding the deletion of private unlisted communities in Microsoft Viva Engage is set to make waves for both admins and users alike. While it may seem like just another change in the ever-evolving landscape of digital collaboration, the impact is significant and worth discussing.

For admins, this update means a shift in how communities are managed. The retirement of private unlisted communities, often referred to as “secret groups,” will require a proactive approach to ensure that all valuable content is migrated before the April 2025 deadline. It’s not just about waving goodbye to a feature; it’s about rethinking community engagement strategies. Admins will need to guide users towards more visible and inclusive alternatives, fostering environments where collaboration can thrive.

On the user side, this change may initially feel like a loss of privacy, especially for those who appreciated the discretion of private unlisted groups. However, it presents an opportunity for users to engage more openly and connect with a broader audience. Embracing this shift could lead to richer discussions and the sharing of diverse ideas. Think of it as moving from a cozy, dimly lit café to a bustling public square—there’s a little more noise, but also a lot more potential for connection!

As we navigate these changes, it’s essential to remember that all underlying content will be permanently deleted after April 14, 2025, so be sure to export any important data soon. For those looking for guidance on how to manage this transition, resources are available, including instructions on exporting data and links to the legacy Yammer network admin portal.

In conclusion, while the retirement of private unlisted communities may feel like a hurdle, it also opens the door to new possibilities for collaboration and connection. I encourage everyone to share their thoughts on this update! How do you think it will impact your experience with Microsoft Viva Engage? Let’s keep the conversation going—your insights could spark some great ideas for navigating this change together!

For more insights and discussions, be sure to check out other posts on mwpro.co.uk.

1 Comment

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