With so many ways to build AI agents in Microsoft, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Should you use Microsoft 365 Copilot, Copilot Studio, or build something fully custom with Azure AI? The answer depends on what you need the agent to do, how much control you want, and the skills available in your team.

Start with the Basics: What’s Your Goal?

Before diving into tools, think about what you’re trying to achieve. Are you extending Microsoft 365 to make life easier for your users, or do you need an AI agent that operates independently of your tenant?

🔹 Microsoft 365 Copilot Extensions – Perfect for enhancing everyday work inside Microsoft apps, leveraging your existing data.

🔹 Copilot Studio – Ideal for low-code makers who need custom workflows and automation but without deep coding.

🔹 Custom AI Agents with Azure – Best for organizations that need full control over AI models, data, and integrations.

How Much Control Do You Need?

Microsoft’s AI ecosystem is built on a mix of pre-built models, low-code tools, and custom AI frameworks. The more control you need over logic, data, and user interactions, the further you move toward custom solutions in Azure.

✅ Quick and easy? Stick with Microsoft 365 Copilot.

✅ Want to integrate with external systems? Copilot Studio gives flexibility.

✅ Need deep customization? Azure AI lets you build from the ground up.

The Hybrid Approach

The best part? You don’t have to choose just one. Many organizations start with Copilot Studio to get quick value, then extend with Azure AI as their needs grow.

If you’re considering AI agents for your business, the key is to align the tool with the problem you’re solving—not just the technology.

What’s your approach to AI agents? Let’s discuss!