Understanding Copilot in Dynamics 365 Finance: A Comprehensive Guide

When discussing Copilot in Dynamics 365, it’s easy to feel a bit overwhelmed. There are multiple offerings under the “Copilot” umbrella, and each serves distinct use cases. Let’s break this down and clarify the options available, so you can make the most of these powerful tools.

1. Copilot for Finance

This tool is designed as an Add-in for Excel and Outlook, with capabilities to connect to various ERPs, including Dynamics 365 Finance.

?? Key Features:

• Streamlines financial workflows directly in Excel or Outlook.
• Preview Mode: Currently free to enable and experiment with at the tenant level.
• Offers rich architectural insights; explore the details here.

?? Try it Out: It’s a great way to explore Copilot functionality without committing to additional costs right away.

2. Copilot for Finance and Operations (F&O)

Within the Finance and Operations ecosystem, there are multiple flavors of Copilot. Let’s look at them in detail:

2. Copilot for Finance and Operations (F&O)

Within the Finance and Operations ecosystem, there are multiple flavors of Copilot. Let’s look at them in detail:

A. Sidecar Copilot

• Conversational Interface: Designed for interactive support, leveraging generative AI.
• Customizability: Extend functionality with plug-ins for specific use cases using Copilot Studio.
• Adaptive Card Support: Starting with version 10.0.41, Sidecar Copilot supports adaptive cards, making the experience even more dynamic and user-friendly. Adaptive cards enable actionable, rich-content responses, providing a more engaging and efficient interface. Learn more about authoring with adaptive cards here.
• Licensing: Requires a Copilot Studio license, but a trial is available to explore its potential.

This combination of conversational AI, custom plug-ins, and now adaptive cards makes Sidecar Copilot an exciting tool for enhancing productivity and tailoring workflows to specific needs.

B. Embedded Copilot

• Built-In Features: These capabilities come as part of the product, like the "Confirmed purchase orders with changes" workspace.
• Default Enablement: Many are enabled by default but can be toggled off in Feature Management.
• Limitations: Cannot be extended or customized. No additional licensing costs.
• Explore the full list of features here.

3. Integrating Dynamics 365 Finance with Microsoft 365 Copilot

For organizations leveraging Microsoft 365 Copilot, there’s an option to integrate Dynamics 365 Finance data into this environment.

?? Requirements:

• A Microsoft 365 Copilot license is essential.
• Learn how to set this up here.

Key Takeaways

• Experiment Freely: Start with the Copilot for Finance add-in in preview mode—it’s free and provides significant value.
• Understand Licensing: Be aware of the specific licenses required for Sidecar Copilot and Microsoft 365 Copilot integration.
• Explore Embedded Features: Take advantage of default capabilities without worrying about extra costs or setup.

By understanding the nuances of each Copilot type, you can strategically incorporate them into your organization’s workflow and enhance productivity across teams.