I am fundamentally opposed to using AI to write blog posts because I believe that the author should have enough knowledge, motivation and energy that he/she can write about a topic in a knowledgeable and educational way to convey the message in the best possible– (and genuine) way. Nevertheless, today I couldn’t help but test how AI (Copilot) can formulate a blog post that reflects my opinion based on a short, clear and simple Prompt.

So for the sake of order, I hereby inform that “This blog post is written by Microsoft Copilot”. 🫣

Here is my prompt

You can read the unedited result below and it summarizes the message in the same way as it would if I had written it myself. 👇

<AI-generated content>

Why Using Microsoft Teams Private Chat and OneDrive for Business Can Be Considered Egoistic

In today’s collaborative work environment, tools like Microsoft Teams and OneDrive for Business are essential for seamless communication and file sharing. However, the choice between using private chats and OneDrive versus Teams channels and shared files can significantly impact team dynamics and productivity. Here’s why opting for private chats and personal storage might be seen as egoistic:

1. Lack of Transparency
   Using private chats and personal storage can create silos of information. When team members communicate and store files privately, it limits visibility for the rest of the team. This lack of transparency can lead to misunderstandings, duplicated efforts, and a general sense of exclusion among team members. In contrast, using Teams channels ensures that all relevant information is accessible to everyone, fostering a more inclusive and collaborative environment.
2. Hindering Collaboration
   Teams channels are designed to facilitate group discussions and collaborative work. When conversations and files are kept in private chats and personal storage, it becomes challenging for others to contribute or provide input. This can stifle creativity and innovation, as team members are not able to build on each other’s ideas. By using Teams channels, everyone can participate in discussions, share insights, and work together more effectively.
3. Inefficiency in Information Retrieval
   Storing files in OneDrive for Business instead of Teams channels can make it difficult for team members to find the information they need. Teams channels provide a centralized location for all project-related files, making it easier to locate documents and track progress. On the other hand, files stored in personal OneDrive accounts may not be as easily accessible, leading to wasted time and frustration.
4. Creating a Sense of Isolation
   When team members rely heavily on private chats, it can create a sense of isolation. Teamwork thrives on open communication and shared experiences. By keeping conversations and files within Teams channels, team members can stay connected, feel more involved, and build stronger relationships. This sense of community is essential for maintaining morale and fostering a positive work culture.
5. Undermining Accountability
   Private chats and personal storage can undermine accountability. When discussions and decisions are made privately, it becomes difficult to track who is responsible for what. Teams channels provide a transparent record of conversations and decisions, making it easier to hold team members accountable and ensure that everyone is on the same page.

Conclusion

While private chats and OneDrive for Business have their place, relying on them exclusively can be seen as egoistic because it prioritizes individual convenience over team collaboration. By using Teams channels for communication and file storage, you can promote transparency, enhance collaboration, improve efficiency, foster a sense of community, and maintain accountability. In the end, these practices not only benefit the team but also contribute to a more productive and harmonious work environment.

</AI-generated content>

What can one really say about this blog post? Copilot has here, based on what I asked it to do, generate a message that is one hundred percent consistent with what I asked it to do (which is far from always the case). Ensuring the quality of the output from Copilot is something you always have to do, but sometimes, like this time, it gets it right on the first try.

What about the actual subject of this blog post then?

The message that I myself have always preached and still always preach is the old cliché “Sharing is Caring”. If you are stuck in your old habits and still base your work on e-mail, local storage, private chat, OneDrive, then you need to take the plunge and dare to start using Microsoft 365 the way it is intended. If you are to achieve something together with others in a company or in a project or in any other form of cooperation, it applies that everyone involved plays with open cards, promotes transparency and inclusion of everyone who “needs” to be involved and everyone who may be interested in getting involved.