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What does a Copilot-ready PE firm look like – and how do you get there?

AI is everywhere in the headlines, but for many private equity firms, it’s still unclear how to make it useful in day-to-day work. Microsoft Copilot offers a practical entry point – especially if your firm already uses Microsoft 365. But unlocking real value requires more than just assigning some licenses and hoping for the best.

Start with a small, cross-functional group

Firms that make progress with AI often start by forming a working group that are empowered to introduce AI to the firm. This team should be drawn from multiple teams with different perspectives helps identify where AI can make a difference. 

Make sure your data is ready

AI tools like Copilot are only as effective as the data they can access. This is done in two ways.  Firstly, by making sure that sensitive data is locked down by making sure that permissions are set up and haven’t drifted over time, so people only see what they’re supposed to. Sensitive information should also be clearly labelled and protected.

Secure data means that you can get started, but equally important is making sure that the data you want Copilot to use – like deal summaries, investment memos, portfolio updates, or meeting notes – are easy for Copilot to find, and good examples identified and separated out for later use.

If your data is scattered or locked away, Copilot won’t be able to help, and this can hinder adoption.  We’ve gone into more detail about getting your data ready for Copilot in this article: Copilot Data Governance for Private Equity Firms

Secure executive sponsorship

AI adoption works best when partners and senior leadership are setting an AI-first direction. Their sponsorship helps set priorities, allocate time and resources, and encourage the rest of the firm to engage. Without that buy-in, even the best tools can stall.

Identify and empower your early adopters

Every firm has people who are naturally curious and willing to try new things. These early adopters can help others learn by sharing what works, what doesn’t, and how to get better results from Copilot. Encourage them to share examples and tips – especially around writing good prompts.

Be patient and keep iterating

Don’t expect perfection from day one. Early experiments may be clunk, and that’s ok. Treat this as a learning journey. When a task proves valuable, consider turning it into a repeatable process or even automating it using an AI agent.

Build on what works

Once you’ve got one or two solid use cases, look for others. The more you learn, the easier it becomes to spot new opportunities. Over time, your firm will build the habits, skills, and confidence to make AI a regular part of how you work.Need help optimising Copilot for your organisation?
Get in touch to arrange a discovery call: How to Contact us | Doherty Associates

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