What is Copilot Studio?

What is Co-Pilot Studio and How Does It Work?

Overview of Microsoft Co-Pilot Versions

• The discussion begins with an introduction to Co-Pilot Studio, emphasizing the need to clarify its relationship with other versions of Microsoft Co-Pilot.

• There are multiple versions of Microsoft Co-Pilot, including a free version accessible via web and mobile for tasks like research and content creation.

• The more commonly recognized version is Microsoft 365 Co-Pilot, which requires a subscription ($30/user/month) and integrates with organizational data such as emails and documents.

Functionality of Co-Pilot Studio

• Co-Pilot Studio allows users to build custom co-pilots for specific internal or external applications, extending the capabilities of Microsoft 365 Co-Pilot.

• Users can define what their co-pilot should do by specifying access to certain knowledge sources, including public websites or internal documents in SharePoint.

Customization and Control

• Users have control over the knowledge base that their co-pilots utilize; they can limit responses to only the specified information rather than general AI knowledge.

• The system supports conversational orchestration, allowing users to manage how topics are addressed based on brand guidelines or critical information needs.

Advanced Features

• Conditional branching logic enables tailored responses depending on user input, enhancing interaction quality while maintaining control over sensitive topics.

• Integration with Power Platform connectors allows co-pilots to perform actions on behalf of users, such as retrieving weather data or triggering approval processes.

Extending Capabilities Beyond Standard Use

• Users can create standalone co-pilots from scratch or enhance existing Microsoft 365 capabilities by connecting them with external systems like ERP or ticketing platforms.

Building Co-Pilots: Enhancing Business Operations

IT Help Desk Systems

• The discussion begins with the concept of building co-pilots, focusing on two primary scenarios. One scenario involves creating an IT Help Desk system that addresses frequently asked questions related to IT support services.

• This system can connect to ticketing platforms like Dynamics, ServiceNow, or Salesforce, allowing it to manage user inquiries effectively and streamline support processes.

HR Scenarios and Standalone Solutions

• Another scenario highlighted is an HR-focused application where a co-pilot can be directed towards a SharePoint site containing policy documents.

• Notably, this implementation can function independently without requiring Microsoft 365 Co-Pilot licenses, making it accessible for deployment in Teams.

Expanding Beyond Traditional Use Cases

• The conversation shifts from traditional chatbot applications on retail or insurance sites to more innovative uses of AI tools.

• Emphasis is placed on reimagining customer self-service by leveraging extensive knowledge bases, which could significantly reduce the workload on call centers and enhance service delivery.

Revolutionizing Customer Interaction

• The potential for co-pilots to act as concierges is discussed; they could assist customers in finding services, making bookings, and suggesting products based on available data.