Transforming Work with AI: Stephen Rose on Microsoft Copilot’s Latest Updates

In this episode of Petri Dish, Russell welcomes Stephen Rose, a modern work and AI consultant formerly with Microsoft. They discuss Microsoft’s recent announcement regarding Copilot and the Spring Wave 2 features.

Episode overview

Microsoft Copilot overview

Copilot aims to integrate AI tools into everyday work processes, allowing users to search using natural language. The updated AI search experience emphasizes the importance of internal data. However, consumer uptake has been slow, with only 20 million users compared to 400 million using ChatGPT, highlighting a need for better integration and user education.

Features and user engagement

The podcast discusses the challenges organizations face in adopting Copilot effectively. Many users struggle to understand when and how to engage with the tool, limiting its potential benefits. Key features, like the Teams meeting recap and email triaging, are highlighted as valuable, but there’s a noted lack of awareness about deeper functionalities that could enhance productivity.

AI agents and their functionality

Stephen explains the concept of AI agents, which are tools designed to assist users in tasks such as writing and research. These agents can connect to various data sources, enhancing the functionality of Copilot. The integration of agents aims to provide users with prompts and suggestions to improve work processes.

Data management and security

A significant concern raised in the podcast is the management of data within organizations. Stephen emphasizes the importance of cleaning up old data and moving it to Azure Cold Storage to improve the accuracy of AI-generated information. He suggests that companies often have outdated data that could misrepresent their current operations, leading to inefficiencies.

Challenges and future directions

As organizations adopt AI tools like Copilot, they face challenges in training employees and managing data effectively. Stephen notes that while there is a rush to implement AI, many companies fail to utilize it to its full potential due to a lack of proper training and understanding.

Conclusion

The podcast concludes with a call for organizations to embrace AI tools like Copilot while ensuring they have the right training and data management practices in place. As the landscape of AI continues to evolve, staying informed and adaptable will be crucial for maximizing the benefits of these technologies.