ChatGPT vs. Microsoft 365 Copilot - which is right for you? The IT leaders’ guide

AI tools are becoming indispensable for enhancing productivity and efficiency in the workplace, and in particular, Large Language Models (LLMs), which serve as interactive AI chat tools. These tools are essentially AI chat tools, where you can talk to an AI who will help you with whatever you prompt it to do. The most popular of these tools are OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Microsoft’s Copilot for 365.

While both tools share similarities, they also exhibit distinct differences within workplace environments. It’s crucial for IT leaders to understand these differences to enable them to make informed decisions for their organisation and ensure the most appropriate tools are used.

Understanding ChatGPT

What is ChatGPT?

ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI, was released in November 2022 and took the world by storm. The first widely available Large Language Model (LLM), ChatGPT was revolutionary and defined the way that AI would be used around the world for years to come. Simply put, it is a state-of-the-art language model designed to generate human-like text based on the input it receives.

With its ability to comprehend context and provide coherent responses, ChatGPT excels in conversational applications. It can be integrated into chatbots, virtual assistants, and other automated systems to enhance user experiences. Its versatility makes it a valuable tool for brainstorming ideas, drafting emails, and even coding assistance.

How does ChatGPT work?

At its core, ChatGPT utilises machine learning techniques to understand and generate language. It has been trained on a diverse range of internet text, enabling it to generate coherent and contextually relevant responses.

The current version of ChatGPT — GPT 4.0 —? is the latest version of GPT, and it’s able to create content that is indistinguishable from human-written text. Compared to past versions of GPT, GPT 4.0 is not only more knowledgeable but is better at using your prompts to find the information you want.?On top of this, GPT 4.0 has more recent training data — whereas past versions of GPT had a training data cutoff of 2021, GPT 4.0 has a cutoff date of April 2023, meaning that it’s aware of events up to April 2023.

Exploring Copilot for Microsoft 365

What is Copilot for Microsoft 365?

Copilot for Microsoft 365 is essentially Microsoft’s own version of ChatGPT. After backing OpenAI in 2023, Microsoft set out to integrate GPT into its own tools. Copilot for Microsoft 365 is tailor-made for businesses within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem to be able to take advantage of the power of AI in their business.

It uses organisational data to enhance productivity across various applications such as Word, Excel, and Outlook. For instance, in Excel, Copilot can suggest formulas, highlight patterns, and even automate data entry tasks. In Word, it assists with grammar corrections, content suggestions, and formatting. It’s also available within every Microsoft 365 application, meaning that you don’t have to open another app or website to access your virtual assistant.

Key similarities

1. Powered by OpenAI

Both ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot are powered by OpenAI’s GPT, meaning that the underlying tech that powers one powers the other too. This means that you’re using the same AI for both, so the decision between the two has a lot more to do with the other features provided rather than the AI quality.

2. Natural language processing

Both interfaces allow for natural language interactions, making it easy to ask questions and receive responses, which is part of the simplicity of AI LLMs. They both provide context-aware suggestions based on user input.

3. The art of prompting

Both of the applications rely on prompting — having to create a prompt to ensure that your response is exactly what you want from the LLM. This is a key part of using LLMs, as the art of prompting is a skill that helps you get the most out of them.

Key differences

1. Primary functionality

ChatGPT primarily focuses on conversational applications and text generation. Its strength lies in engaging users in natural language conversations, making it ideal for chatbots, virtual assistants, and content creation. On the other hand, Copilot is designed to enhance productivity within the Microsoft 365 suite. Its primary functionality revolves around providing intelligent suggestions, automating tasks, and offering data-driven insights to improve efficiency.

2. Integration depth

While ChatGPT can be integrated into various platforms, Copilot's deep integration within the Microsoft 365 suite offers a more seamless user experience. Copilot's ability to predict user actions and provide context-specific recommendations is tightly coupled with Microsoft 365 applications, making it a more comprehensive productivity assistant for users already within the Microsoft ecosystem.

3. User interface

The user interface of Copilot is designed to fit seamlessly within Microsoft 365 apps, offering features like sidebar assistance and inline suggestions, whereas ChatGPT typically operates in a more general chat interface, however developers can use its API to tailor the interface for bespoke needs.

4. Data security and compliance

A big difference between ChatGPT and Copilot is that ChatGPT uses public data to train its AI, meaning that any data that you put into the programme will be used to train the LLM. Conversely, Copilot lets you have a private implementation of GPT, meaning that your information is protected. With Copilot, you’ll also benefit from organisational access controls, ensuring that only authorised users can access sensitive information.

ChatGPT lacks the stringent compliance certifications that Microsoft offers, such as GDPR and ISO 27001, which provides additional assurance for enterprises concerned about data security.

5. Pricing models / subscriptions

ChatGPT typically offers a free tier with limited access, while a subscription plan, known as ChatGPT Plus, provides enhanced features and faster response times for a monthly fee.

Copilot is integrated into Microsoft 365 applications and is generally available as part of the Microsoft 365 subscription plans, which vary in price based on the level of service and features included. Organisations may need to pay for additional licenses depending on their size and needs.

Summary

AI tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot have significantly transformed the way we work, and while both offer substantial benefits, they cater to different needs and environments. the scope of AI applications you envisage, and the existing tools and workflows in place.

ChatGPT excels in conversational applications, making it an ideal option for content creation and chatbots. However, for IT leaders focused on productivity, Microsoft Copilot emerges as a strong contender. Its seamless integration within the Microsoft 365 suite provides robust support for automation and data-driven insights, alongside superior cyber security measures with private GPT.

Despite these advancements, navigating the AI landscape remains complex. If you’d like to discuss AI applications in your organisation or integration with the M365 suite, reach out to us today at [email protected].