Sponsored by PublicSectorExperts.com

Hey there👋

We've all heard the buzz about AI.

But what happens when you put a tool like Microsoft 365 Copilot into the hands of 20,000 government employees across the UK?

The Government Digital Service (GDS) just wrapped up a major cross-government trial.

The findings are in. This isn't about futuristic scenarios; it's about practical impact, right now.

Your Day, Reimagined: How Copilot Gives You Time Back

Imagine getting back 26 minutes of your day. Every day.

That's the average reported by trial participants using M365 Copilot.

Over a year, that’s 13 days you’re freeing up.

This isn't just about speed; it's about reclaiming time from the mundane and redirecting it towards more strategic, satisfying work.

The trial ran from September 30, 2024, to December 31, 2024.

It involved a diverse range of departments. This included DWP, HMRC, Home Office, and the Welsh Government.

This was the largest deployment of M365 Copilot in UK government to date.

Insights from the Experiment: How AI is Changing Government Roles:

• Productivity Boost: Over 70% of users reported M365 Copilot reduced time spent searching for information and performing routine tasks. For many, this meant more time for strategic activities. "Improves productivity" was a top benefit across nearly all professions.

• User Satisfaction High: A remarkable 82% of users wouldn't want to go back to working without Copilot. The tool scored 7.7 out of 10 for satisfaction and 8.2 for recommendation. It even influenced job satisfaction for 63% of users.

• Accessibility a Key Benefit: A standout insight was Copilot's positive impact on users with accessibility needs. Testimonials highlighted how it aided individuals with dyslexia and dyspraxia. It made tasks like email drafting significantly easier and refined communication tone. This alone points to a powerful, untapped potential for inclusivity.

• Communication vs. Content Creation: Daily use of Copilot centered on communication tools. Think Teams (34% daily use) and Outlook (33% daily use). Content creation, particularly document drafting in Word (43% weekly use), saw significant weekly engagement.

• Limitations Present: Copilot showed limitations with highly nuanced, context-specific, or data-heavy tasks. Policy and finance teams, for instance, found it struggled with complex data and multiple contrasting opinions. Human oversight remains crucial.

• The Learning Curve is Real: Many users highlighted a need to learn effective prompting and adapt work patterns to get the most out of the tool. This isn't just plug-and-play; it requires a strategic approach to training and change management.

My Takeaway: This is More Than Just a Tool; It's a Significant Step Forward.

When I first heard about this trial, I wondered if it would deliver on the promise. The numbers speak for themselves.

An average of 26 minutes saved daily isn't marginal; it's a notable shift. What really stood out to me was how users felt about it – their positive reactions, and how it improved both their work quality and how much they enjoyed their jobs.

It's not just about doing more, it’s about doing it better, and feeling better about the work itself.

The benefits for accessibility are important. This isn't just about efficiency; it's about fostering a more inclusive public sector workforce.

However, the report also clearly highlights that AI isn't a replacement for human judgment, especially in complex areas. It's an assistive tool.

This means investing in proper training and change management isn't optional; it's essential to unlock the full potential and reduce risks.

For procurement leads, this means thinking beyond just the license cost.

For policy advisors, it means considering how to integrate AI responsibly without compromising nuance.

Until Next Time!

Navigate Public Sector with Ease

Doing business with the UK public sector just got easier. PublicSectorExperts cuts through the complexity, providing the insights and guidance your business needs. From procurement strategies to policy advice, their network of professionals ensures you stay ahead. Plus, you’ll enjoy connecting with experts who make it simple and actionable for your success.

Quick Question!

Before you go, we’d love to know how today’s Focus resonated with you. Your feedback helps us improve each issue. 😊

New here? Welcome aboard! Join the Focus community to get insights straight in your inbox.

Need help standing out? Let us spotlight your business or service and partner with us.

Got a tip, question, or big win? We’re listening! Share it with us, and we’ll see it featured.

Looking for expert advice? Our team of public sector pros has your back, get in touch here.