Practical guide
Start with the work
Describe the responsibility, users, information, current process, pain points, decisions and exceptions. Avoid starting with a preferred model or tool.
Use consistent evaluation criteria
Assess mission value, employee time, service quality, information sensitivity, data readiness, implementation complexity, integration, human review, risk and measurable outcomes.
Build a balanced portfolio
Combine quick learning opportunities with strategically important uses. Do not make the first pilot carry every ambition of the organization.
Map the workflow
Identify triggers, inputs, approved knowledge, actions, outputs, handoffs, review points and exception handling. This reveals whether Copilot, an agent, automation or process change is appropriate.
Design controls early
Define access, permitted actions, evidence, review, escalation, testing and ownership before development accelerates.
Write a pilot brief
Document the users, scope, success measures, controls, timeline, owners and decision gate for moving forward, changing direction or stopping.