Copilot for Microsoft 365: Checklist for getting started

Licence allocation: Users who are to use Copilot for Microsoft 365 require a necessary base licence. This can include all Microsoft 365 Business, Microsoft 365 Enterprise and Office 365 Enterprise plans, among others. Check the licence requirements and assign the appropriate licences in the Microsoft 365 Admin Centre. You can then also assign the Copilot licences.

A secure implementation strategy is essential, especially when it comes to IT security issues. Ensure that all data protection and security measures are in place to guarantee maximum security when using Copilot. Important aspects to consider include:

• Zero Trust architecture: Consider a comprehensive Zero Trust architecture for maximum security.
• Privacy and security configurations: Review and configure privacy settings in Microsoft 365 apps.
• Identity and access management: Ensure comprehensive identity protection and controlled data access.
• Microsoft Entra ID: Users require a Microsoft Entra ID account. Perform onboarding via the Microsoft 365 Admin Centre.

To generate accurate results, the AI tool utilises a wide range of data, documents and

Information. Well-structured data organisation is therefore essential for Copilot to deliver the best possible results. To achieve this, you should take a closer look at the following aspects:

• Data structure and nomenclature: Check that your data is well structured and uses consistent nomenclature for accurate data analysis.
• Cloud data organisation: Organise your cloud data so that it is compatible and accessible for Copilot.

The network infrastructure and update channels must be set up in such a way that Copilot can operate and be updated without restriction:

• Endpoints and network configuration: Ensure that Microsoft 365 endpoints are not blocked and that the network configuration follows Microsoft 365 network connectivity principles.
• Enabling update channels: Include Copilot in the current channel or the monthly enterprise channel. Preview channels are a good option for testing the product before rollout.
• Network resources for updates: Ensure that the necessary network resources for Microsoft 365 feature updates are accessible to ensure Copilot functionality.

Various Microsoft 365 applications require settings to be configured so that Copilot for Microsoft 365 can perform to its full potential. These settings include:

• Microsoft 365 Web Apps: Third-party cookies must be enabled for Word Online, Excel Online, and PowerPoint Online.
• Microsoft OneDrive: Enable OneDrive for users to take advantage of features such as file recovery.
• Microsoft Outlook: Ensure that Outlook is configured correctly and that primary mailboxes are hosted in Exchange Online.
• Microsoft Teams: Configure Teams, including transcription and recording, to take full advantage of Copilot.
• Microsoft Loop & Whiteboard: Enable Microsoft Loop and Whiteboard in your tenant for use with Copilot.

The introduction of new technologies represents a noticeable change for your employees in terms of their

Working method. To promote acceptance, individual training courses and professional

Support is crucial:

• Introduction concept: Develop an introduction concept and train your employees in the responsible use of AI.
• Use case training: Offer training courses to promote the efficient use of Copilot in specific use cases.

There are a few important points to consider in order to successfully integrate Microsoft Copilot into your work environment. Use the checklist above as a guide to carefully prepare all the necessary steps. From network configuration to data protection and training, comprehensive planning ensures the smooth implementation of AI technology.