Slack’s subtle redesign aims to make users feel less overwhelmed

Critics question whether changing the app’s interface will actually add to net productivity. According to research by RescueTime, a productivity app that tracks how users spend their time, office workers check email or messaging apps like Slack every six minutes, on average. — Photo by Benny Bowden on Unsplash

The Slack sidebar is getting an update, but you’re forgiven if you haven’t noticed.

Slack began rolling out the changes last Wednesday without fanfare, but it will take a few weeks to kick in for everyone. The new look is supposed to help users feel less overwhelmed, a frequent complaint heard by the ubiquitous workplace communications platform.