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As of June 2, 2026, shared Google & Zoom accounts are no longer supported at BYU-Idaho due to the risks associated with password sharing. Instead, users are encouraged to leverage Microsoft 365 collaboration tools, such as Groups and Teams.
For a "drop-in room," Teams is usually a better fit than a shared account because no password sharing is required.
Option 1: Teams Meeting Room (Simplest)
Create a recurring Teams meeting such as "Office Hours" and share the meeting link.
Pros:
- Same link all semester.
- Students click and join.
- Multiple users can be organizers or co-organizers.
- Chat, screen sharing, file sharing, and meeting recaps are built in.
Good when:
- Students join during published hours.
Option 2: Teams Channel + Meet Now (Recommended for Departments)
Create a Team such as Math Tutoring Center with channels for subjects.
Pros:
- Persistent chat and files.
- Tutors collaborate in the Team.
- Launch a meeting directly from a channel when office hours start.
- Students already in the Team can easily join.
Good when:
- The tutoring center has ongoing conversations and resources.
Option 3: Teams Virtual Appointments (Best for Staffed Help Desks)
If you need a lobby/waiting-room experience:
- Create a Virtual Appointment queue.
- Students join from a booking page.
- Tutors manage incoming visitors.
Good when:
- You want structured intake and waiting queues rather than an open meeting room.
BYU-Idaho Considerations
For what used to be a shared Zoom account:
- Create (or use an existing) Microsoft 365 Group or Team owned by the office.
- Add multiple users as owners/members.
- Use a shared calendar or channel meeting rather than sharing credentials.
- This aligns with the BYUI guidance to move away from shared accounts and use Microsoft 365 collaboration tools.
Contact Us
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