A refactored version of Canvas Inbox will be available for usage and testing in Beta on 9/15.
What does that mean for you, the user? Code refactoring is defined as “the process of restructuring and improving computer code without changing or adding to its external behavior and functionality”; therefore, you can expect a more consistent Inbox UI, an improved mobile web experience, better Inbox interactions and better and improved accessibility. All of that without any change to the way you’re used to Inbox behaving, as there are no changes to the original functionality. Users should expect no visible changes via this effort, as minimal visual differences are introduced in this effort. Inbox remains the same and great messaging tool you use to communicate with a group, a course or with individual students.
Then why refactor? This update utilizes InstUI for Inbox, Instructure’s internal design language, to provide improved accessibility and quality experiences. Updating the code now makes it much easier to change and improve it later, as we consider future functionality updates, old code slows the time and effort required by our engineers to enhance our products for you.
What do I need to do? We’re so glad you asked! Before we introduce this refactored version to Production, we’re asking you/our community to use the updated Beta version and provide any necessary feedback and/or concerns. While there have been no updates or changes made to the Inbox functionality, we’re definitely not perfect and there could be a bug in the code that we’re not aware of. The ask is not for feedback on requested functionality changes and/or updates - the ask is that you make us aware of refactored code/functionality not operating as it does today. You can respond to this post and share here or discuss your feedback in the Features Q&A space in the Community.
What’s next for the Inbox refactor? We’re glad you asked that too! The refactored code will sit in Beta for thirty days to allow users an opportunity to check it out, then we will move this code from Beta to Production in the October 15th release to replace the Inbox code currently in Production. This process will be seamless to you, as the user, as we expect to identify any potential issues and/or bugs, with your assistance, while in Beta.
As always, thank you for your interest in Canvas, in Inbox, your dedication to your students and for being a valued member of our Community! If at any time you would like to share your experience, provide feedback or discuss needed functionality, click this link to sign up for time to have a brief chat with me and a couple of team members.
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