Microsoft Copilot: your new research assistant

Copilot offers far more than just basic functionalities like writing code or booking team events through plugins. One of its most valuable applications within your organization is using it as a research assistant.

A key strength of Copilot is its ability to simplify complex topics. Ask it something like, “Explain the impact of AI on business,” and it will provide a concise summary of key points, citing credible sources for further reading. It can also suggest trusted websites and offer insightful follow-up questions to deepen your understanding.

However, like any AI tool, Copilot can occasionally generate inaccurate information, often referred to as "hallucinations." For this reason, it should be treated as a research assistant rather than a fully reliable researcher. To minimize these risks, you can use Copilot’s “precise” mode, which offers more accuracy. Even when fact-checking its responses, verifying the information is generally quicker than searching manually on Google.

To give you a clearer picture of its research capabilities, here’s an example: Earlier in this blog, we mentioned Copilot's ability to explain the impact of AI on business with reliable sourcing. Here's an actual response from Copilot (with American spelling retained for authenticity):

“Artificial Intelligence (AI) has a profound impact on businesses across various sectors. Key areas where AI makes a significant difference include:

• Efficiency and Cost Reduction: Automates and optimises processes, saving time and money.
• Cybersecurity and Fraud Management: Over half of businesses use AI for fraud detection and security enhancements.
• Customer Relationship Management: Helps predict preferences and personalise customer experiences.
• Content Creation: Used for website content generation, even in multiple languages.
• Operations: Streamlines inventory management and supply chain operations.
• Recruitment: Assists in talent sourcing and hiring processes.”

Copilot also listed credible sources for this information and suggested follow-up questions such as:

• “What are some examples of AI in business?”
• “How can I implement AI in my small business?”
• “What is the future of AI in business?”

While this example focuses on Copilot itself, you can ask it to research virtually any topic. Explore Copilot’s features and try it for yourself—just remember to switch to “precise” mode for the most reliable results.

Microsoft Copilot’s potential goes far beyond being a research assistant. If you’re interested in learning more about how it can support your business, please reach out via the contact form on our website.

‍