A human-centered approach using Motivational Maps.
The latest release of Microsoft Copilot brings powerful new capabilities, like Notebooks, Pages, References, Audio Guides, and the ability to create Copilot Agents. But adoption isn’t just about features. It’s about desire. And desire is personal.
Using the nine motivators from Motivational Maps, here’s how to inspire people to embrace Copilot in ways that speak directly to what drives them:
Relationship motivators
Defender (Security & Stability)
Defenders need to feel safe. Highlight how Copilot’s References feature ensures traceability and accuracy, reducing the risk of misinformation. Emphasize structured rollout plans and how Copilot Agents can automate repetitive tasks without disrupting existing workflows.
Friend (Belonging & Connection)
Friends value human connection. Show how Audio Guides can make learning Copilot feel more personal and conversational. Position Copilot as a teammate that frees up time for meaningful collaboration, like using Pages to co-create documents with colleagues more easily.
Star (Recognition & Status)
Stars want to shine. Offer them the chance to be Copilot Champions, leading internal demos, piloting Copilot Agents, or showcasing their work in Notebooks. Recognise their contributions publicly to fuel their motivation.
Achievement motivators
Director (Control & Influence)
Directors want to lead. Involve them in shaping how Copilot is rolled out. Let them design workflows using Copilot Agents or oversee team-wide adoption strategies. Show how Notebooks can help them track and guide team performance with AI insights.
Builder (Success & Results)
Builders are goal-driven. Demonstrate how Copilot boosts productivity, like using Pages to draft reports faster or References to speed up research. If early adoption leads to measurable wins (e.g., faster delivery, better KPIs), make those outcomes visible.
Expert (Mastery & Knowledge)
Experts love to learn. Offer deep dives into how Copilot Agents are built, or how References are sourced. Let them become internal experts, perhaps even creating Audio Guides or advanced Notebooks others can learn from.
Growth motivators
Creator (Innovation & Creativity)
Creators thrive on originality. Show how Notebooks can be used to brainstorm, prototype, and iterate ideas quickly. Let them experiment with Copilot Agents to automate creative workflows or test new formats using Pages.
Spirit (Freedom & Autonomy)
Spirits resist rigid systems. Give them the freedom to explore Copilot at their own pace. Let them choose how to use Audio Guides, or build their own Copilot Agents to suit their style. Emphasise how Copilot reduces admin so they can focus on what matters.
Searcher (Purpose & Meaning)
Searchers need to feel their work matters. Frame Copilot as a tool that helps them make a bigger impact, whether that’s through more time for community engagement or using References to ensure ethical, transparent communication. Invite them into conversations about responsible AI use.
Final thought
Adoption isn’t about pushing a tool. It’s about pulling people in, by speaking to what truly motivates them. When we align Copilot’s features with what our people care about most, we don’t just get compliance. We get enthusiasm.
Let’s lead this change not just with technology, but with empathy.