As IT leaders, we’re constantly on the lookout for ways to empower our teams and boost organizational efficiency. Copilot for Microsoft 365, a powerful AI assistant that integrates seamlessly with familiar Microsoft 365 applications, offers a revolutionary solution to this very challenge.
But before diving headfirst, some preparation is key to ensure a smooth and successful rollout. Here, we’ll explore everything you need to know to get your organization Copilot-ready, all in one place:

Unleashing Copilot's Potential: The Importance of Data Organization

Imagine Copilot as your own, super-powered research assistant. The more organized your data is, the more insightful and accurate its results will be. This is where a comprehensive review of your SharePoint sites comes in.
  • Clear Naming Conventions: Ditch the cryptic folder titles! Implement clear and consistent naming conventions across all your documents and folders.
  • Streamlined Document Storage: Organize your documents logically. Group related documents together and leverage subfolders for further categorization.
  • Metadata Mastery: Don't underestimate the power of metadata! Utilize tags and keywords to categorize documents effectively.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure Copilot can efficiently surface the information your teams need, fostering a data-driven work environment where finding the right information is a breeze.

Security First: Ensuring Data Governance for Peace of Mind

Security is a top priority. While Microsoft Copilot adheres to strict security protocols, data governance remains a shared responsibility. Here’s where data labelling takes centre stage:
  • Sensitive Data Labelling: For sensitive data like employee salaries or financial records, meticulous handling is crucial. Ensure all data within Microsoft 365 is meticulously categorized and labelled appropriately. This safeguards sensitive information and prevents unauthorized access, even for AI assistants like Copilot. For instance, requesting sales figures shouldn't expose salary information – proper data labelling guarantees Copilot delivers the precise information you require.
By prioritizing data governance, you can empower your teams to leverage Copilot’s features with confidence, knowing their sensitive information remains secure.

Protecting Data Assets: Implementing DLP(Data Loss Prevention) Policies with Microsoft Copilot

Data Assets security is paramount. While Microsoft Copilot upholds stringent security measures, effective DLP policies are crucial. Here’s where policy creation takes center stage:
  • Content Protection: Prevent data oversharing across Microsoft 365 apps and devices.
  • Role-Based Access: Restrict access to authorized users, ensuring Copilot retrieves only pertinent information.
  • Collaborative Alignment: Involve legal, compliance, and IT teams to align policies with regulatory and organizational standards.
By prioritizing DLP, you fortify data integrity and empower Copilot to deliver precise insights securely.

Unlocking User Potential: Empowering Your Teams with Copilot

The true power of Copilot lies in user adoption. To ensure your teams maximize Copilot’s benefits, equip them with the knowledge to use it effectively:
  • Comprehensive Training Programs:Develop training programs that showcase Copilot's functionalities across different applications. Demonstrate how to summarize complex emails in Outlook, generate creative text formats within Word, or create compelling presentations in PowerPoint with Copilot's assistance.
  • User-Friendly Resources: Create easily accessible resources like cheat sheets or quick guides that provide a concise overview of Copilot's features within various applications.
The more comfortable your teams are with Copilot, the greater the productivity gains they’ll experience

Building the Buzz: Fostering Early Adoption Champions

Creating a network of enthusiastic early adopters can significantly boost excitement around Copilot. Identify individuals across various departments who are comfortable with new technologies.
  • In-Depth Training: Provide these early adopters with in-depth training on Copilot's functionalities.
  • Exploration and Feedback: Encourage them to explore Copilot's features thoroughly and actively solicit their feedback. Their positive experiences and insights can become a powerful force in driving broader user adoption.
By fostering early adoption champions, you can create a groundswell of excitement that propels Copilot usage within your organization.

Continuous Improvement: Monitoring and Adapting for Success

A data-driven approach is essential for maximizing the impact of any new technology. Once Copilot is deployed, keep an eye on usage patterns and user feedback:
  • Track Usage Patterns: Monitor which applications see the most Copilot activity and which ones see less.
  • User Feedback Matters: Actively solicit user feedback to identify areas where Copilot can be further optimized to meet their needs.
  • Track Usage Patterns: Monitor which applications see the most Copilot activity and which ones see less.
  • User Feedback Matters: Actively solicit user feedback to identify areas where Copilot can be further optimized to meet their needs.
By continuously monitoring and adapting based on usage data and user feedback, you can ensure your organization gets the most out of the Copilot experience.

Ready to Get Started? A Self-Assessment Tool and Your One-Stop Resource

Microsoft offers a self-assessment program to help evaluate your organization’s readiness for Copilot: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/solutionassessments/safeedbackform. This tool provides valuable insights into your current Microsoft 365 and Power Platform maturity for AI services.
As your trusted IT partner, we’re here to guide you through every step of the Copilot implementation process. From initial planning and data organization to user training and ongoing support, we’ll ensure your organization unlocks the full potential of Microsoft Copilot.

Quick Steps on how you can prepare yourself to supercharge your organization for Microsoft 365 Copilot implementation:

  • Data Preparation: Ensure organized and governed data through inventory, cleansing, and stakeholder involvement. Copilot uses AI for precise categorization and recommendations.
  • Label Implementation: Define taxonomy and content with default, manual, or auto-labelling. Secure data with controlled access and enhanced permission models.
  • DLP Policy Creation: Establish policies to prevent content oversharing. Collaborate with legal, compliance, and IT teams for regulatory alignment.
  • App Readiness Assurance: Verify licenses, unblock WebSocket, enable plugins, and ensure compatibility with required Microsoft 365 apps.
  • License Management: Allocate licenses based on roles and manage through Microsoft 365 Admin Centre for flexibility.
  • Driving Adoption: Develop a comprehensive plan with training, resources, and in-app guidance for effective AI utilization.
  • Measuring Impact: Utilize the Copilot Dashboard to track usage, app-specific contributions, and optimize adoption strategies.
By following these steps and leveraging our expertise, you can equip your teams to work smarter, not harder, and drive forward.