OTG: PoC for Microsoft 365 Copilot

How can Microsoft 365 Copilot be used effectively while actively engaging employees and delivering results in a short time? Together with novaCapta, Ostfriesische Tee Gesellschaft tested Copilot in an eight-week proof of concept and gained valuable insights for its future AI strategy.

Balancing IT security and data protection settings with optimal usability 

Understanding where AI delivers real value in everyday work

Proof of concept for Microsoft 365 Copilot with 25 participants 

Compact eight-week testing approach including kick-off, use case services, and deep dives 

Interactive workshops, office hours, practical “homework” for participants, and sur veys for targeted feedback

Employees learn in a hands-on way and can apply Copilot functionalities directly 

Deeper insights into technical, organizational, and permission-related requirements and challenges 

Reusable methods and formats established for future AI initiatives 

PoC results form a solid basis for informed decisions on AI assistants

Ostfriesische Tee Gesellschaft (OTG) wanted to gain early in sights into the tangible value AI can deliver in everyday work – without compromising security, data protection, or gover nance. As a traditional company with high standards for infor mation security and employee involvement, it was clear that an unstructured rollout of Microsoft 365 Copilot was not an op tion. Instead, OTG chose a compact, hands-on proof of concept together with novaCapta. One particular challenge was the deliberately short testing pe riod. Within just eight weeks, Copilot had to be tested under realistic conditions, relevant use cases identified, and the tech nical foundation configured to ensure secure usage. In parallel, novaCapta supported OTG in evaluating and opti mizing the technical framework.

It quickly became apparent which functionalities were limited by existing security and data protection settings and where organizational or legal coordi nation was required. Topics such as data protection configu rations and IT security demanded a careful balance between maximum protection and meaningful functionality.

The value of the proof of concept went far beyond simply “getting to know” Copilot. OTG gained a clear understanding of how AI can be applied effectively and which prerequisites must be in place. The PoC revealed which use cases are realistic, where missing permissions or data sources limit value, and how strongly motivation and guidance influence success. One key insight stood out: AI does not deliver value on its own. Training, recurring formats, and active enablement are essential for em ployees to truly unlock its potential.

Based on the results, OTG was able to make well-informed de cisions regarding the further development of its AI strategy and establish a solid foundation for the future use of AI assistants across the organization. At the same time, OTG and novaCapta jointly developed proven methods, formats, and approaches during the PoC that can now be reused in future projects. The proof of concept was therefore not an endpoint, but a structu red starting point for OTG’s sustainable use of AI.

OTG Case Study als PDF (DE)

OTG Case Study als PDF (EN)