UK small businesses must stay ahead by adopting the latest technology. One of the most exciting developments of the moment is AI. You can’t have failed to see AI is being implented (and sometimes somewhat shoehorned) almost everywhere. Microsoft Copilot is an AI-powered assistant designed to boost productivity across Microsoft 365 applications. As it’s part of the Microsoft 365 eco system it integrates incredibly well into day to day workflow, enabling staff to access data and become more productive. But before diving in, businesses should conduct a “Readiness Check” to ensure smooth implementation and that there are no security nightmares waiting to happen!
Why Is a Copilot Readiness Check Important?
A Copilot Readiness Check helps businesses assess whether their IT infrastructure, security policies and workflows are optimised for Microsoft Copilot. Skipping this step could lead to issues, security risks, or inefficient AI adoption. AI is not a small investment, but equally important, it can be a huge security issue if some foundational steps are not taken.
For small businesses, many of which operate with limited IT resources, this check ensures a seamless transition, maximising Copilot’s benefits while minimising disruptions.
Key Areas to Assess in a Copilot Readiness Check
1. Microsoft 365 Licensing & Compatibility.
Copilot requires a base license subscription such as M365 Business or Enterprise license. If your business is on a different plan, you may need to upgrade. Additionally, verify that all users have the latest versions of apps like Outlook, Teams and Word to avoid functionality issues.
2. Data Security & Permissions.
Copilot accesses company data to generate insights, so security is critical. Check:
– File permissions: Ensure sensitive data is restricted to authorised personnel.
– Data loss prevention (DLP) policies: Prevent Copilot from sharing confidential information.
– Compliance requirements: If you are in a regulated industry, there is a high chance you will need further data restrictions in place.
3. Network & Performance Optimisation
Copilot relies on cloud-based AI processing, so a stable, high-speed internet connection is essential. Slow networks can hinder performance.
4. Employee Training & Adoption
Introducing AI tools can be a cultural shift. Prepare your team by:
– Offering training sessions on how to use Copilot effectively.
– Encouraging staff to experiment with Copilot in low-stakes tasks before full deployment.
– Addressing concerns about AI replacing jobs (Copilot is a helper, not a replacement).
5. Cost & ROI Assessment
Copilot comes at an additional cost. Weigh the benefits—such as time savings, improved decision-making, and automation, against the investment to ensure it’s right for your business.
A Copilot Readiness Check is a crucial step for UK small businesses looking to harness AI effectively. By ensuring your systems, security and staff are prepared, you can unlock Copilot’s full potential—driving efficiency, innovation, and growth.
Is your business ready for Copilot?