Accenture and Avanade, in collaboration with Microsoft, have launched a new Copilot initiative to meet the growing demand for artificial intelligence (AI)-based solutions. This practice includes a joint investment in new capabilities, solutions and training to help organizations transform their business functions safely and responsibly.
Copilot’s business transformation practice will provide the technology and expertise necessary for clients to accelerate and expand the use of Copilot and AI agents throughout the organization. The 3 companies will work together to create AI templates, extensions and connectors, and offer support to leverage security capabilities powered by Microsoft technology.
“This investment strengthens the relationship with Microsoft and helps customers integrate AI at scale as a catalyst for reinvention. The combination of Microsoft Copilot, generative AI technologies and the expertise of Accenture and Avanade will allow companies to redesign their processes and operations, improve security and discover new ways to generate value,” adds Julie Sweet, CEO of Accenture.
For his part, Judson Althoff, executive vice president and head of Microsoft Enterprises worldwide, expressed his satisfaction in strengthening the collaboration with Accenture to help clients develop AI-based business processes in a safe and responsible manner, driving differentiation. in the market, “The combination of copilot and autonomous agent capabilities will accelerate the transformation of AI in various industries, achieving successful business outcomes through pragmatic innovation.”
Copilot business transformation with Generative AI
Accenture and Avanade have already developed agents to optimize workflows, increase revenue and improve customer experience. For example, a supplier risk and identification agent can offer real-time information, agile supply chain responses and better supplier selection, which could save up to 15% in costs. While a procure-to-pay agent could improve efficiency by up to 40%, optimizing supplier relationships and avoiding disruptions to key services.
All three companies have invested in the launch of the business transformation practice Copilot, and in new capabilities and training for clients to accelerate and scale the adoption of generative AI
Additionally, they have created Copilot solutions specific to various industries and functions, such as finance, manufacturing, supply chain, retail, consumer goods, and healthcare. For example, a manufacturing co-pilot powered by Microsoft Manufacturing Data Solutions in Fabric can transform the shop floor and factory worker operations.
Companies are also using Microsoft Copilot Studio to customize copilots and create autonomous agents that implement efficient and responsible AI-based workflows. One example is the custom Copilot “pAInt” developed for Bricorama, a French retailer, which uses Azure OpenAI to guide customers through their painting projects.
Azure Generative AI Engineer Nanodegree
Udacity, part of Accenture LearnVantage, and Microsoft have launched a new Azure Generative AI Engineer Nanodegree program to train students in designing and building AI-powered applications in Azure.
This online program enables students to solve real-world problems using AI models, developing custom Microsoft 365 Copilot applications, and applying AI models in practical projects with the support of industry experts. The program is available today and offers a free lesson for new students.
