Why Copilot Fails Without This One Strategy

Microsoft Innovation Podcast

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https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/709

What happens when you roll out cutting-edge AI tools like Microsoft 365 Copilot—only to watch them gather dust? In this episode, Vicki Holman, Ecosystem Architect at ANS, shares what really drives successful Copilot adoption. From cultural shifts to AI literacy, she unpacks the human side of AI transformation. Whether you're leading a rollout or just trying to get more from your license, this conversation is packed with practical insights and hard-earned lessons from the trenches.

🔑KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Adoption is everything: Without a clear change management strategy, even the best AI tools will go unused.
- Copilot is a mindset shift: Superusers think “Copilot first,” using it as a sparring partner to ideate, create, and refine.
- AI boosts accessibility: Copilot has been life-changing for neurodivergent users, leveling the playing field in meetings and collaboration.
- Guardrails matter: Data governance, permissions, and tools like Microsoft Purview must be in place before rollout.
- Prompt-a-thons work: Hands-on, collaborative workshops are a powerful way to build AI literacy and confidence across teams.

🧰 RESOURCES MENTIONED
👉 Microsoft 365 Copilot – https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/copilot
👉 Microsoft Purview – https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/business/information-protection/microsoft-purview
👉 ProSci Change Management Model – https://www.prosci.com/methodology/adkar
👉 Microsoft Loop – https://loop.microsoft.com/

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Chapters

1. Welcome & Episode Overview (00:00:00)

2. Meet Vicki Holman (00:01:43)

3. What Copilot Is (and Isn’t) (00:05:58)

4. The Culture Shift Behind AI Adoption (00:10:33)

5. Real Productivity Gains with Copilot (00:14:13)

6. Unexpected Use Cases (00:18:23)

7. Accessibility Wins That Matter (00:21:13)

8. What Makes a Copilot Superuser? (00:24:43)

9. Microsoft Loop: Still Finding Its Place (00:27:28)

10. Final Advice for Copilot Rollouts (00:31:13)

11. Wrap-Up & Reflections (00:35:13)