Copilot: The game changer in the business planning of manufacturing companies
The integration of Copilot into all Microsoft Dynamics 365 business applications marks a turning point in the use of artificial intelligence for smart manufacturing. For the first time, AI applications can be seamlessly integrated into everyday business processes, in some cases without any programming effort. This development is particularly important given the shortage of skilled workers, as it enables a significant increase in efficiency.
Copilot serves as a powerful assistant that helps employees process data faster, manage documents more effectively, and optimize internal company communication. In this article, we look at the specific impact this can have on the financial and business planning of manufacturing companies.
By integrating generative AI, Copilot fundamentally changes how finance and operations teams work within Microsoft Dynamics 365 products. Artificial intelligence is predestined to reduce complexity, draw deep insights from large amounts of financial data and automate routine tasks. This allows experts to focus on strategic planning, interpersonal collaboration and creative problem solving.
Two significant changes Copilot brings
Accessibility via no-code and low-code applications is another advantage of Copilot. Users can use AI-driven functions regardless of their technical experience. Every person in the company can contribute to increased efficiency and better financial results.
With Copilot, users can now interact with AI software using natural language. This facilitates access to complex financial analysis and operational insights by making interaction with the system more intuitive and user-friendly.
A powerful reasoning engine synthesizes large amounts of data and enables generative and predictive insights based on specific company data. This supports finance and operations teams in making informed decisions and predicting future trends and developments.
Copilot as a solution for the top challenges in financial and business planning
By analyzing market data and trends, Copilot can help to predict price volatility, budget flexibly and develop appropriate purchasing strategies.
Take, for example, an automotive supplier that purchases various plastics and is affected by the volatility of oil prices. Copilot could analyze trends in oil and related plastic prices to support a dynamic purchasing strategy.
In a highly competitive world, Copilot provides data-driven insights and automated analysis. These enable more precise cost control and help to respond effectively to global pricing pressures.
For example, if a company faces intense price competition from global competitors, Copilot can continuously analyze competitor pricing and use production cost data to support strategic pricing.
Copilot identifies and analyzes risks, such as supply chain disruptions or currency fluctuations, and supports the development of risk management strategies to ensure financial stability.
For example, companies that produce internationally are affected by sudden exchange rate fluctuations. Copilot could identify these currency risks and create forecasts, which in turn enables hedging strategies or adjustments to purchasing strategies.
According to a study commissioned by HSO, 60% of manufacturing companies have entered new regions and territories to respond to global events. Copilot can assist with this expansion by providing relevant market analysis and strategy recommendations.
For example, if a manufacturer is planning to expand into emerging markets where demand for its technologies is growing, Copilot could provide detailed market analysis on these regions.
Copilot is ideal for processing large amounts of data and providing valuable insights for business reports and strategic insights. This promotes informed decision-making.
For example, if a manufacturer is faced with the challenge of extracting relevant information from the flood of production data, Copilot can analyze this data in real-time and identify patterns and anomalies.
Overcoming personnel and competence deficits with Copilot
For manufacturing companies in particular, labor shortages and skills shortages also pose major challenges. In 2023, 36%* of manufacturing companies stated that they were significantly or severely affected by recruitment challenges. In the previous year, this figure was as high as 55%*.
And here, too, Copilot can provide twofold support:
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Copilot in Manufacturing & Supply Chain
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Knowledge and insights around Copilot and Manufacturing
