A Copilot Implementation Checklist

Informed by insights from the Microsoft 365 Copilot Early Access Program, this checklist gives you actionable steps to become an AI-powered organisation, accelerate usage and engagement, and track progress and impact.

Review your security and data settings

Microsoft states that Copilot is built on a comprehensive approach to enterprise-grade security, compliance, privacy, identity, and responsible AI. Because Copilot automatically inherits your existing Microsoft 365 data and security permissions, setup is straightforward. It also highlights the importance of having established content management practices and data governance in place before the rollout begins.

For more information on security and data for Copilot, see Microsoft’s technical documentation site.

Be intentional when assigning licenses.

Microsoft has found that the best approach to choosing what business area to start in is to think about your biggest opportunities or pain points. Many early access customers started in customer service and sales—but there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to determining where Copilot will add the most value. Think about who in your organisation likes getting to grips with new technology, who can find the benefits quickly and talk with colleagues about the success and learnings they’ve uncovered.

Learn more about role-specific ways to use Copilot in Microsoft 365 Copilot Adoption page.

Create an AI working-group.

A working group helps oversee and guide the successful implementation of AI solutions within your organisation. The working group should reflect your organisation’s needs. Microsoft suggests a good working group should consist of people who lead or are part of IT, change management, executive team, risk management, compliance or governance.

Read “Leading in the Era of AI: Creating an AI council” to guide you in this process.

Help people build new work habits.

Effective change management is vital for implementing an AI tool like Copilot, as it ensures your organisation views it as not just new technology, but a new way of working. It requires leaders to measure attitudes and manage expectations. An effective adoption strategy must cater to these diverse attitudes, providing support, training, and clear communication to transition workflows and mindsets into an AI-powered future of work.

For futher informaion take a look at “Will AI Fix Work?, Work Trend Index Annual Report”, Microsoft, May 2023.

Let’s move forward together into a future where AI aids us in transforming the way we work, innovate, and succeed. Call us on 01392 454750 for more information or email hello@it-champion.co.uk to arrange a call.