As explored on The AI Show. Full interview here.
As someone deeply embedded in conversations about the future of work and technology, I had the privilege of discussing one of today’s most pressing topics on a recent podcast: the transformative role of AI in reshaping how we work. Joining Rob Scott and Kevin Kieller, I dove into the impact of AI on workplace productivity, creativity, and collaboration.
AI isn’t just another buzzword; it’s a pivotal shift—the backbone of what I often refer to as the Fifth Industrial Revolution. This revolution isn’t about replacing humans but enhancing what we do. Think of it as the era where human ingenuity meets machine intelligence to achieve extraordinary outcomes.
One of the buzzwords at the moment is Copilot. Created by the behemoth Microsoft in supposed partnership with one of the biggest AI platforms in the world OpenAI… But…
The Future of Work: AI Copilots in the Spotlight—Promise or Problem?
When we talk about the impact of AI in the workplace, it's hard not to mention the immense promise these tools hold. However, not every headline-grabbing innovation lives up to the hype. As someone who’s been part of discussions with industry leaders and futurists, it’s clear there’s a disconnect between the AI we imagine and the tools companies are currently using.
One prominent example is Microsoft Copilot. While marketed as a revolutionary AI tool for enhancing workplace productivity, the reality—according to both anecdotal evidence and hard data—paints a far less flattering picture.
Copilot: Falling Short of Expectations?
When the management consultancy Gartner surveyed 123 IT leaders, only four said Microsoft Copilot had provided significant value to their companies.
That’s less than 4% finding significant, real, measurable impact.
For context, imagine a tech startup with a net promoter score (NPS) that low—investors would run for the hills.
A year after its release, reviews from both inside and outside Microsoft suggest Copilot is struggling. Complaints range from inefficiency and high costs to security concerns. These are serious criticisms, especially in a time when other AI tools, like ChatGPT or Anthropic's Claude, are gaining traction for their versatility and usability.
This isn’t about being harsh on Microsoft. It's a challenge for them to do better. AI tools that fall short of their promise don’t just hinder productivity—they slow progress. With 2025 shaping up to be the year of AI Agents, businesses cannot afford tools that don't deliver.
The Bigger Picture: Beyond Hype
The issue with overhyped AI like Copilot underscores a larger problem. AI adoption isn’t just about integrating new tools—it’s about ensuring those tools are reliable, ethical, and actually solve problems. This is particularly critical in a landscape where businesses are under pressure to adopt AI but risk disillusionment when solutions fail to meet expectations.
For example, while Copilot struggles, tools like ChatGPT are not just evolving—they're transforming. They integrate seamlessly, adapt to user needs, and deliver real results. This contrast raises a critical question: Is Microsoft betting on the wrong horse, or can they course-correct in time? Just look at what Athropolic can do now…
A Call for Innovation and Inclusion
The challenges with Copilot are a reminder that AI development, like any workforce evolution, needs diversity—not just in its development teams but in its application. AI agents must work well across different industries, teams, and tasks. Diversity in AI tools isn’t just about fairness—it’s about functionality.
Let’s not forget: diversity isn't just for your human workforce. AI tools that embrace varied applications, integrate securely, and truly meet user needs are what organizations should be striving for. So make sure you aren’t just using one AI.
A Closing Challenge to Microsoft
Microsoft’s Copilot may have stumbled, but the opportunity to lead in AI innovation isn’t gone. The next wave of AI tools will define the future of work, and companies like Microsoft need to prove they can deliver on their promises.
As I said on the podcast, the promise of AI isn’t just about automation—it’s about augmentation. It’s about empowering human teams with AI systems that work as hard, and as smart, as we do. Microsoft, the ball is in your court.
To explore how AI is truly shaping the future of work, visit www.dansodergren.com. Let’s discuss how we can ensure AI doesn’t just promise change but delivers it.
Thanks to Rob Scott and Kevin Kieller for inviting me on the show to dicuss this.
References for the piece:
Find out more about Dan Sodergren and what he does for organisations at www.dansodergren.com