Compare concrete working routes rather than two brands
Copilot includes Chat, Microsoft 365 context, Cowork and custom agents and apps. Alongside Chat and Work, ChatGPT now offers Word access, Data and expanded Library connections. Define the same task, permitted sources, available models and finished output for both candidates. Comparing Copilot in Word with a plain chat window would mix different working routes. Newly announced models and preview features are assessed only when actually available in the intended business account.
Example: from project meeting to customer update
A team supplies approved meeting notes, project status and a template. Both routes must produce an internal status draft with supported decisions and open risks. A person checks commitments and deadlines. The comparison ends only when the draft reaches the intended location and the responsible colleague can use it. External sending is a separate step requiring its own approval.
Compare the identity behind data access
Microsoft 365 sources need clear sharing permissions; AI does not remove existing oversharing. A connection into another interface must also be checked for its actual identity and permissions. Use two test roles and one deliberately excluded source. Do not confuse search or visibility settings with actual access boundaries.
Evaluate professional quality and usability together
A familiar interface can reduce training and switching effort, but it does not guarantee a correct summary. A flexible workspace can enable new outputs while potentially requiring additional setup. Assess completeness, source errors, format quality and time to acceptance together. Include a case where the correct response is a clarification or an explicit acknowledgement of missing information.
Leave the pilot with a supportable decision
The evaluation records the value of the tested workflow, required accounts and approvals, and recurring administration and professional oversight. Add licence and consumption costs from a current quotation rather than generic online comparisons. The AI System Check identifies the bounded starting point that answers your business’s most important unresolved question.
Decision matrix
| Assessment question | Microsoft Copilot | ChatGPT |
|---|---|---|
| Interface | Chat or work feature with defined access | Workspace with specifically permitted apps |
| Sources | Verify accessible Microsoft 365 content and roles | Verify accessible sources through the identity used |
| Work hand-off | Test the output in the existing team workflow | Test the same destination and acceptance criteria |
| Decision | Value including training, review and administration | Value including setup, review and administration |
Keep it verifiable
Primary sources
- Microsoft: Copilot Chat overviewSource checked:
- Microsoft: Copilot Chat privacy and protectionsSource checked:
- OpenAI: Plugin controlsSource checked:
- Microsoft: Restricted Content DiscoverySource checked:
- Microsoft: Restricted SharePoint SearchSource checked:
- Microsoft: More models, one CopilotSource checked:
- Microsoft: Build apps in Copilot Cowork and Copilot StudioSource checked:
- OpenAI: ChatGPT for WordSource checked:
- OpenAI: LibrarySource checked:
