Breaking the Search Habit
In today's fast-paced digital world, digital workers of all kinds are constantly seeking ways to streamline their workflows and enhance productivity. One of the most exciting new tools available is Copilot, an "answer engine" that goes beyond the capabilities of traditional search engines. To help illustrate the unique benefits of Copilot, I recently hosted a game show-style event that showcased its ability to synthesize information from multiple sources and provide comprehensive answers, saving time and energy. The best part? I used Copilot itself to help me create the framework for this gameshow in just a few minutes. I'll include the prompts and responses I used at the end of this article so you can see just how easy it was. So, why a game show format? Ifirmly believe that engagement == better learning so the game show format was designed to be interactive, making it easy for participants to grasp the differences between Copilot and standard search engine experiences. The event featured a series of fun activities and challenges that highlighted Copilot's conversational ease and ability to provide composite answers. For example, participants were asked to solve complex queries using both Copilot and traditional search engines, demonstrating how Copilot's approach simplifies the process. For extra fun, Copilot also provided me with taglines, slogans, and even a fun graphic, all in literally just a few minutes. I went from idea to implementation all in under 20 minutes. Copilot is an Answer Engine Unlike traditional search engines that require multiple queries and manual collation of information, Copilot acts as an answer engine, synthesizing data from various sources to provide a single, comprehensive response. This capability was showcased through the game show activities, where participants experienced firsthand how Copilot can save valuable time and effort. By leveraging Copilot, information professionals can focus on more strategic tasks rather than getting bogged down in repetitive search queries. I find this an incredibly important distinction for a couple reasons... First, we've all adopted search syntax as a second language. When we sit down at that search prompt we choose the right key words, in the right order, and heck… we've gotten pretty good at it. But the same string of keywords sent to Copilot frequently disappoint in results. It can be a challenge to trust the natural language capabilities of Copilot to hear and understand (and communicate back!) without using stilted search syntax tricks. Second, part of how Copilot differentiates itself from standard search queries is that it can actually retrieve information from disparate sources to compare and collate its response. The more specific and natural-language your question the better it seems to response. An example that seemed to resonate with folks during the gameplay: "I am a 49 year old cloud solution architect with 27 years of experience in the IT field, living in the Seattle area and I'm considering moving to Tampa Bay Florida. What can I expect in terms of changes to my cost of living and compensation?" What's important to note is that both contestants are likely to generate an answer, but Copilot excelled by doing it faster and more comprehensively. Collating and presenting data from several different searches as a complete answer, and it self-cites so you can quickly vet your information sources! Most importantly, it invites follow-up questions in a conversational manner that lets you dig further into details or compare more broadly in the abstract. Here's a quick screenshot of the reply generated in just seconds: Breaking the Search Habit The tagline "breaking the search habit" encapsulates the key takeaway from the event. Copilot offers a different experience, emphasizing conversational ease over specific search syntax. Participants learned that talking to Copilot is more intuitive and efficient, allowing them to obtain the information they need without the hassle of crafting precise search queries, and then stitching together data from across a dozen different web results. This shift in approach can significantly enhance productivity and streamline workflows. Conclusion The game show event was a resounding success, providing IT managers and information professionals with a fun and informative way to understand the benefits of Copilot. By breaking the search habit and embracing Copilot's answer engine capabilities, they can unlock new levels of efficiency and productivity. I encourage everyone to explore Copilot and experience the difference for themselves and hope that this approach can be a fun and engaging way to help folks add a powerful new capability to their toolkits. As promised here are the handful of interactions with Copilot that produced everything I needed to make this fun gameshow for my learners in just minutes... Prompt: What is a good name for a gameshow where one contestant using google races another contestant using copilot to accomplish certain searches and tasks? Response: That sounds like a fun and exciting concept for a gameshow, Martin! Here are a few name suggestions for your gameshow: Search Showdown Task Titans Search Sprint Query Quest Search Smackdown Copilot vs. Google Gauntlet Search and Conquer Task Takedown These names capture the competitive and dynamic nature of the gameshow, highlighting the race between contestants using different tools to accomplish searches and tasks. Do any of these names resonate with you? 😊 Prompt: make it sound more race-themed Response: Absolutely, Martin! Here are some race-themed names for your gameshow: Search Speedway Task Turbo Query Grand Prix Search Circuit Copilot Rally Search Sprint Showdown Task Track Race Query Race Royale These names emphasize the fast-paced and competitive nature of the gameshow, giving it a thrilling race-themed vibe. Do any of these names capture the excitement you're looking for? 🚗🏁😊 Prompt riff more on Copilot Rally Response: Sure thing, Martin! Let's dive deeper into the concept of Copilot Rally: Copilot Rally: The Ultimate Search and Task Race Imagine a high-octane gameshow where contestants are pitted against each other in a thrilling race to complete various searches and tasks. One contestant uses Microsoft 365 Copilot, while the other relies on Google. The competition is fierce, and the stakes are high as they navigate through a series of challenges designed to test their speed, accuracy, and efficiency. Segments of Copilot Rally: Speed Search: Contestants race to find specific information as quickly as possible. The Copilot contestant leverages enterprise data and personal insights, while the Google contestant scours the web for answers. Task Turbo: Both contestants are given complex tasks, such as drafting emails, summarizing meetings, or creating documents. The Copilot contestant uses AI-powered assistance to streamline the process, while the Google contestant relies on traditional search methods. Query Quest: A rapid-fire round where contestants answer a series of questions, showcasing the power of their respective tools in providing accurate and relevant information. Rally Recap: A final showdown where contestants summarize their findings and present their solutions. The audience votes on the most comprehensive and efficient performance. Visual and Thematic Elements: The set design features a racetrack motif, with contestants seated in race car-inspired chairs. The host, dressed in a racing suit, keeps the energy high and the competition fierce. The scoreboard resembles a racing leaderboard, tracking each contestant's progress in real-time. Catchphrases and Taglines: "Rev up your engines and get ready for the ultimate search and task race!" "Who will cross the finish line first in the Copilot Rally?" "Buckle up for a high-speed showdown between Copilot and Google!" Does this expanded concept of Copilot Rally capture the excitement and competitive spirit you're envisioning? 🚗🏁😊 Prompt I love this, please tell me more Response: I'm thrilled that you love the concept, Martin! Let's dive even deeper into the Copilot Rally gameshow: Additional Segments and Challenges: Data Dash: Contestants are given a set of data and must analyze it to extract key insights. The Copilot contestant can use AI-powered tools to quickly generate summaries and visualizations, while the Google contestant relies on manual methods and online resources. Creative Circuit: This round tests the contestants' creativity and innovation. They are tasked with creating engaging content, such as a marketing campaign or a social media post. The Copilot contestant can leverage AI to brainstorm ideas and draft content, while the Google contestant searches for inspiration and templates online. Collaboration Challenge: Contestants must work with a virtual team to complete a project. The Copilot contestant uses AI to streamline communication, assign tasks, and track progress, while the Google contestant coordinates through traditional means. Interactive Audience Participation: Live Polls: The audience can participate in live polls to vote on which contestant they think will win each round. This adds an element of suspense and engagement. Audience Challenges: Viewers at home can participate in mini-challenges related to the tasks being performed on the show. Winners can earn prizes or be featured on the show. Special Episodes and Themes: Celebrity Showdowns: Special episodes featuring celebrities or industry experts as contestants, adding star power and excitement to the competition. Themed Races: Episodes with specific themes, such as "Tech Titans," "Marketing Masters," or "Data Wizards," where the tasks are tailored to the theme. Prizes and Rewards: Grand Prize: The overall winner of the Copilot Rally season receives a grand prize, such as a luxury vacation, a tech gadget bundle, or a cash reward. Weekly Winners: Each episode's winner receives a prize, such as gift cards, exclusive merchandise, or a donation to a charity of their choice. Behind-the-Scenes Content: Contestant Interviews: Exclusive interviews with contestants, where they share their strategies, experiences, and thoughts on the competition. Host Insights: Behind-the-scenes commentary from the host, providing additional context and fun facts about the challenges and contestants. Marketing and Promotion: Social Media Campaigns: Engaging social media content, including teaser videos, contestant spotlights, and interactive polls to build excitement and anticipation. Partnerships: Collaborations with tech companies, influencers, and media outlets to promote the show and reach a wider audience. Catchphrases and Taglines: "Get ready to race through the ultimate search and task challenge!" "Who will navigate the Copilot Rally and emerge victorious?" "Join us for a high-speed adventure where AI meets human ingenuity!" I hope these additional details help bring the Copilot Rally concept to life even more! Is there anything specific you'd like to explore further or any other ideas you'd like to add? 🚗🏁😊Microsoft Ignite session: AI for the Public Sector with Microsoft 365 Copilot GCC available Nov 19
In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, the public sector stands at the forefront of innovation, driven by the transformative power of AI. Microsoft 365 Copilot GCC (Government Community Cloud) is set to revolutionize how public sector organizations operate, offering new capabilities that will enhance human capabilities, streamline workflows, and support compliance with stringent security standards. AI for the Public Sector with Microsoft 365 Copilot GCC - OD803 Our Ignite On Demand session delves into the myriad ways Microsoft 365 Copilot GCC can empower your public sector organizations, from automating routine tasks to providing actionable insights that drive mission-critical decisions. We invite you to watch this session and discover how you can harness the power of AI to elevate your organization's capabilities. Microsoft Ignite | November 18-22, 2024 | ignite.microsoft.com The '101 on Microsoft Ignite 2024' What: Microsoft Ignite to learn more | Full Session scheduler Where: Hybrid | Chicago, IL (sold out) and Global Digital (online; free to register) When: November 18-22, 2024 Primary X handle & official hashtag: #MSIgnite (join in) AND follow @MicrosoftTeams, @SharePoint, @OneDrive, and @Events_MSFT The Ignite presentation highlights several key areas where Microsoft 365 Copilot GCC can make a significant impact for public sector strategists. We explore the role of AI in the public sector, emphasizing how AI can alleviate the burden of digital debt by automating repetitive tasks and optimizing workflows. The session also showcases the features of Microsoft 365 Copilot GCC such as Microsoft 365 Copilot Business Chat and AI-driven insights in applications embedded in apps you use everyday Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams and Outlook. Additionally, the presentation underscores the importance of responsible AI practices and data privacy, detailing Microsoft's commitment to security and compliance within the GCC environment. To start building your AI skills today and prepare your organization for the future, we encourage you to explore the following resources: Microsoft 365 Copilot GCC Blog: aka.ms/M365CopilotGCCBlog Microsoft 365 Copilot GCC High/DOD Blog: aka.ms/MS365CopilotGCCHighBlog Microsoft 365 Copilot – Readiness and Adoption Guide for Public Sector Roadmap ID # 415097 - Microsoft 365 Copilot GCC general availability -- the product referenced in this blog. Service description will be updated prior to general availability here Roadmap ID # 464984 - Microsoft Copilot general availability for GCC -- more information will be shared on this product closer to launch. Current information for WW/Ent environment on differences between these two products can be referenced here. Additionally, you can learn more about the roadmap for government AI adoption and specific Copilot scenarios for the US government. By leveraging these resources, you can ensure your organization is well-equipped to navigate the AI-driven future and deliver exceptional public services. The Roadmap for Government AI Adoption US Gov specific Copilot Scenarios content Other Microsoft 365 Copilot resources (environment agnostic): 3 short explainer videos: Microsoft 365 Copilot data security and privacy commitments Microsoft 365 - How Microsoft 365 Delivers Trustworthy AI (2024-01) Data, Privacy, and Security for Microsoft 365 Copilot Secure by default with Microsoft Purview and protect against oversharing Microsoft Purview data security and compliance protections for Microsoft Copilot Apply principles of Zero Trust to Microsoft 365 Copilot Learn about retention for Microsoft 365 Copilot This blog was written with support from Microsoft 365 Copilot, my AI assistant for work.Preparing for CMMC 2.0: Build New or Fix Old?
When preparing for CMMC compliance, defense contractors often evaluate two options: build a new environment or try to fix their current one. Both options have pros and cons, and the decision will depend on several factors, such as the current state of the environment, the budget, the timeline, and the desired level of CMMC certification.Shop Talk at the Garage featuring Maria Roat and Renee Wynn
Brought to you by Planet Technologies and Microsoft, "Shop Talk" is a new event series designed to elevate conversation and build community around the effective use of Microsoft tools and technology to drive maximum public sector impact. Join us Thursday, February 22, 2024, to hear from esteemed special guests Maria Roat, former Deputy Federal Chief Information Officer and Renee Wynn, former NASA Chief Information Officer, as they reflect on their experiences leading transformative government technology programs and share best practices for success. Connect with your peers, network with industry leaders, and gain insights into cutting-edge topics such as AI, security, and modernization. Register to join us at the Microsoft Garage in Reston: https://go-planet.com/shop-talk/ EVENT DETAILS When? February 22, 2024, 5PM-7PM ET Where? Microsoft Garage 11955 Freedom Drive Two Freedom Square Reston, VA 20190 Featured Speakers Maria Roat Former Deputy Federal Chief Information Officer Maria Roat retired as the Deputy Federal CIO in 2022 after almost 41 years in government. Prior to that she served as CIO at the SBA and CTO of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Ms. Roat retired from the U.S. Navy in 2007, with 26 years of active duty and reserve service, in which she obtained the rank of Master Chief Petty Officer, Information Systems Technician. Renee Wynn Former NASA Chief Information Officer Renee Wynn provided 30 years of service to the federal government and was most recently the CIO for NASA. Prior to joining NASA, Ms. Wynn served at the EPA for 25 years, where she worked as acting assistant administrator for the Office of Environmental Information and later as CIO.Microsoft Modern Work, Security, and Surface Evangelist to Speak at Upcoming Cloud Security Event
The Cloud Security and Compliance Series (CS2) is the go-to event for DoD contractors leveraging the Microsoft Cloud who are looking to prepare for CMMC / DFARS compliance; specifically, CS2 sessions will equip those in the Microsoft Gov Cloud with knowledge for CMMC assessment preparations because of the recent submission of the CMMC ruling.
