Bringing AI into the Workplace: Where Do You Start?

By Becky Anzalone

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant concept—it’s already reshaping how businesses operate, make decisions, and deliver value. But for many organizations, the real question is: how do we actually get started with AI in the workplace?

The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. AI adoption looks different depending on your role, your goals, and your team’s technical expertise. While formal training can accelerate your journey, the first steps often involve a combination of exploration, experimentation, and strategic planning.

Here are practical tips—and some helpful course suggestions—to help every team get started:

For Productivity Teams & Admins

Start with what you already use.
Look at the tools your team relies on every day—like Microsoft 365, Teams, or Outlook—and explore how AI is already embedded into those platforms. Copilot, for example, can help draft emails, summarize meetings, and analyze data without any coding knowledge.

Quick Wins to Try:

• Use Copilot in Word or Excel to automate repetitive tasks.
• Try ChatGPT to brainstorm or organize to-do lists.
• Use Microsoft Designer or Canva’s AI tools for fast visual content creation.

Recommended Courses:

• AI-3025: Work Smarter with AI
• Copilot Foundations (MS-4021)
• Leveraging ChatGPT: Your GenAI Advantage
• AI-3024: Design a Dream Destination with AI

These courses introduce everyday AI tools that help manage tasks, streamline communication, and support creative problem-solving, without requiring a technical background.

For Business Leaders & Executives

Think strategically, act experimentally.
Before investing heavily, identify 1–2 areas of your business that could benefit from AI, like customer service or reporting. Pilot a solution, measure the impact, and iterate from there.

Smart Starting Points:

• Host an internal AI awareness session.
• Assign a cross-functional team to explore use cases.
• Review competitor and industry case studies.
  

Recommended Courses:

• AI-3017: Microsoft AI for Business Leaders
• AIBIZ: Artificial Intelligence for Business Professionals
• ETBIZ: Emerging Technology for the Business Professional
• GenAIBIZ: Generative AI for Business Professionals

These sessions explore how to align AI capabilties with business goals and help you make informed, future-ready investments in technology.

For IT & Data Teams

Focus on experimentation and integration.
Your technical teams should be building quick prototypes, exploring APIs, and integrating AI services into existing systems. Encourage a “build and learn” mindset and carve out time for experimentation.

Technical Tips:

• Use Azure OpenAI Studio to test GPT-powered solutions.
• Explore how AI can assist with security, monitoring, or workflow automation.
• Encourage team members to participate in hackathons or internal innovation challenges.

Recommended Courses:

• AI-102T00: Designing and Implementing a Microsoft Azure AI Solution
• AI-3016: Develop Custom Copilots with Azure AI Studio
• AI-3002 – 3004: Courses in Document Intelligence, NLP, and Vision
• PL-7004: Implement AI Models with Power Platform AI Builder
• AI-900T00: Azure AI Fundamentals
• AZ-2005: Develop AI Agents Using Azure OpenAI
• Certified AI Practitioner (CAIP)
• Applied Math for AI, ML, and Data Science
• PL-300: Power BI Data Analyst

These courses support deep learning and real-world deployment of AI solutions—perfect for teams building intelligent systems and data pipelines.

Bonus Tips for Getting Started with AI in Any Role

• Designate an AI champion on your team to track progress, identify tools, and share updates.
• Use free resources and communities like Microsoft Learn, Hugging Face, or Google AI to stay updated.
• Set clear goals—are you trying to boost efficiency, create new products, or improve decision-making?
• Start small, measure fast, and scale what works.

Ready to Go Further?

No matter where you begin, AI training can set the foundation for smarter work and better results. At The Computer Workshop, we offer flexible delivery, expert instructors, and a track record of supporting organizations just like yours.

Explore our AI course lineup and find what fits your team’s needs today:
View All Courses & Register

800.639.3535 | Training@TCWorkshop.com

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