Color changing in outlook shared calendar

Copper Contributor

I have a user that has editing rights to her boss's calendar and she given it a different color than hers which works but than it changes later on its own.  When it changes on its own the user goes in changes the color again and it looks like it works but soon after it changes on its own again.  Does someone have any suggestions?

5 Replies

@RGochez 

If the color of a shared calendar in Outlook keeps changing on its own, there could be a few reasons behind this behavior.

Here are some possible solutions to troubleshoot the issue:

  1. Ensure consistent calendar settings: Confirm that both the user and her boss have consistent calendar settings, such as the default color scheme, theme, or any other relevant settings. Inconsistencies in settings could cause the color changes.
  2. Check calendar sync settings: Verify that the user's calendar is properly synchronized with her boss's calendar. Any sync issues could lead to unexpected changes in the shared calendar's appearance. Refreshing the sync or re-adding the shared calendar may help resolve this.
  3. Clear Outlook cache: Sometimes, cached data can cause issues with calendar colors. In Outlook, go to the File tab, select Options, and navigate to the Advanced tab. Under the "Outlook Start and Exit" section, click on the "Empty Auto-Complete List" button to clear the cache. Restart Outlook and see if the issue persists.
  4. Update Outlook and Exchange: Ensure that both Outlook and the Exchange server are running the latest updates and patches. Sometimes, software updates can address known issues and improve stability.
  5. Check for conflicting add-ins or rules: Add-ins or rules in Outlook may interfere with the shared calendar settings. Disable any third-party add-ins and review any rules that could potentially affect the shared calendar's appearance.
  6. Reset the calendar color: If all else fails, try resetting the calendar color to the default setting. Remove any custom color settings and let it revert to the default color. Then, reapply the desired color and observe if it remains consistent.

@NikolinoDE 

 

At work, we all have each others calendars on show. Personally mine isn't changing colors, but my bosses colors just keep juggling around.

Does this apply to Outlook online?

If so, how do I confirm if our settings are consistent?

Where do I find the sync settings?

Do I need to clear my cache with Outlook online?

How would I reset the calendar colors?

 

Look forward to hearing from you as my boss is getting very frustrated with this problem.

@tasiaSCNPL 

If you are experiencing issues with calendar colors in Outlook online, here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem:

Confirming Settings Consistency:

Calendar Settings:

    • Open Outlook online and go to the Calendar.
    • Check if there are any specific color settings for your boss's calendar. You can usually find this option by right-clicking on the calendar or accessing the calendar settings.

Checking Sync Settings:

Calendar Sharing:

    • Confirm that your boss has shared the calendar with you using the appropriate permissions.
    • Ensure that the sharing settings include the option to view details or edit, as necessary.

Clearing Cache in Outlook Online:

Browser Cache:

    • If you are using Outlook online through a web browser, clearing the browser cache might help. This varies depending on the browser you are using, but it's typically found in the browser settings or preferences.

Resetting Calendar Colors:

Revert to Default:

    • In Outlook online, find the option to manage calendars or calendar settings.
    • Look for an option to reset or revert to default settings. This may vary depending on the specific version of Outlook online you are using.
    • Remove any custom color settings and apply the default color.

Additional Tips:

  • Browser Compatibility: Ensure that you are using a supported and up-to-date browser for Outlook online. Compatibility issues with certain browsers can sometimes lead to unexpected behavior.
  • Incognito/Private Mode: Try accessing Outlook online in incognito/private mode to rule out any browser extensions or cache issues.
  • Contact IT Support: If the issue persists, it might be beneficial to contact your IT support team for assistance. They can investigate further, especially if there are any server-side issues.

Please note that the specific steps and options can vary based on the version of Outlook online and the browser you are using. If you encounter difficulties or if the issue persists, involving your IT support team would be advisable. They can provide targeted assistance based on your organization's specific setup.

I am just here to state that I've observed this problem in Outlook desktop client (M365 Apps for Enterprise, monthly enterprise channel) and to the best of my ability it seems like Outlook is simply being flakey. Brand new profile, everything is lickity split, except the few calendars that have been added might still be updating, it's really not clear whether they're done yet or not even after a few days. The shared calendar improvements are enabled, and calendars added via right-click > Add Calendar > "Open Shared Calendar...", and ensuring they are type:(REST)).

Will watch here for any other insights to come along. I'm working with a user who is plagued by this one. The thing I think is the issue is that one of the shared calendars belongs to a very powerful power user who has a large and busy calendar, including large attachments in many of the many events. The Outlook status bar regularly dances between "All folders are up to date" and "Updating <so and so's calendar> folder". It so quickly switches into and out of the "All folders are up to date" status, that I've (after all these years) now lost faith in that status meaning anything, at least when there are REST calendars involved.
Just wondering if you have any update at this point and if you see any parallel with what I described in my last post (one of the shared calendars being a very busy/big calendar). Thanks in advance.