Allow MessageClass Filtering in Default Folder Retention Tags in Exchange Online

What do other Microsoft 365 Exchange Oline Admins think about this.  While implementing online archiving the current filtering of message types is hindering adoption for Online Archiving.

Summary:I 

Exchange Online currently restricts the -MessageClass parameter in default folder retention tags to only * or VoiceMail. This limitation prevents administrators from applying retention policies that target only standard email messages (IPM.Note)—a critical need for organizations that want to archive email while preserving user-facing data like calendar items, tasks, and notes.

Problem:

This restriction:

• Forces the archiving of non-email items (e.g., calendar invites, tasks, notes), which are often small in size but essential to users.
• Breaks user workflows by making these items inaccessible in the archive.
• Undermines compliance strategies by preventing precise policy enforcement.
• Renders personal tags ineffective in environments where users are not trained or incentivized to apply them.

Impact:

Compliance Risk: Organizations cannot enforce retention policies that reflect their actual compliance requirements.

User Experience: Critical calendar and task data becomes inaccessible in the archive, leading to confusion and support overhead.
 

Administrative Burden: Workarounds (e.g., mailbox rules) are fragile and inefficient.

Reputational Harm: These limitations reduce trust in Microsoft 365 among educational institutions and other sectors.
 

Proposed Change:

• Allow the -MessageClass parameter in default folder tags to accept: IPM.Note (standard email)
• Other valid message classes (e.g., IPM.Appointment, IPM.Task) as needed
• Custom values where applicable

Justification:
 

• The retention engine already supports MessageClass filtering in personal tags—this is a policy restriction, not a technical one.
• Granular control enhances compliance, not weakens it.
• This change would align Exchange Online’s retention capabilities with real-world organizational needs.