A recent study by Avanade has revealed that Microsoft's Copilot for Microsoft365 not only enhances structured creativity, idea sharing, and problem-solving capabilities at work but also helps employees overcome initial fears of this generative AI tool. The study, which surveyed 700 global Avanade employees, analyzed the impact of Copilot on the work experience.
This seven-week study was the largest pilot conducted during the early access program for Copilot for M365, aiming to explore the tool's impact on six interpersonal metrics: communication, creativity, trust, job satisfaction, sense of belonging, and organizational citizenship behavior. Initially, 72% of employees were uneasy about Copilot's meeting transcription feature, but after six weeks of use, 46% became more comfortable, indicating an increased openness as employees became familiar with the tool.
On the ratings of creativity and innovation, employees' overall scores increased by 2%, reaching 82%; support for new ways of working also rose from 80% to 89%. However, there was a slight decrease in preferences for tasks requiring original thinking. Notably, 88% of employees felt that Copilot aligned with corporate values, while 65% believed it aligned with their personal values.
In terms of practicality, Copilot scored 75%, while transparency and accountability ratings were 78% and 65% respectively, indicating a need for enhanced understanding of these concepts. The study also found that 85% of employees felt a sense of accomplishment after using Copilot, and 80% maintained engagement at work, showing that Copilot successfully integrated into the work without reducing job satisfaction.
However, team sense of belonging and collaboration slightly decreased by 2%, indicating room for improvement in these areas. Additionally, the ability to adapt to new technology increased to 86%, while employees' altruism and politeness indices remained at 88%, showing that while Copilot supports the enhancement of technical capabilities, it does not affect the team's collaborative culture.
Key Points:
✨ The study shows that employee engagement and sense of accomplishment significantly increased after using Copilot.
🤖 88% of employees believe Copilot aligns with corporate values, helping them overcome fears of new technology.
📊 Although the tool enhances technical capabilities, team sense of belonging and collaboration still need to be strengthened.