Lab 07 - Use built-in agents with Researcher and Analyst
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Level | 100 to 200 |
| Duration | 30 minutes |
| Apps | Microsoft 365 Copilot, Researcher agent, Analyst agent |
| Sample files | 01_Mock_Project_Charter_Energy_Data_Platform.docx, 08_Mock_Procurement_Spend_Analysis.xlsx, 09_Mock_HSSE_KPI_Dashboard.xlsx, 10_Mock_Project_Cost_Schedule_Control.xlsx |
[!IMPORTANT] These labs use synthetic mock content only. Do not use real BP confidential information, employee data, supplier records, operational procedures, or restricted business data in prompts.
Scenario
You need to prepare a leadership-ready research and analysis pack for the mock Energy Data Platform initiative. You will use Researcher for multi-source investigation and Analyst for structured data analysis, then compare when each built-in agent is more appropriate than standard Copilot Chat.
Learning objectives
- Explain when to use Researcher, Analyst, and standard Copilot Chat.
- Use Researcher to produce a structured, source-aware briefing from multiple work files.
- Use Analyst to inspect spreadsheet data, identify patterns, and create data-driven recommendations.
- Validate outputs by checking source coverage, assumptions, and unsupported claims.
Exercise 1 - Choose the right built-in agent
- Open Microsoft 365 Copilot.
- Open the Agents area and locate Researcher and Analyst if they are available in your tenant.
- Discuss with your group which agent is best for research synthesis, spreadsheet analysis, and quick drafting.
Exercise 2 - Use Researcher for a multi-source briefing
Use Researcher to prepare a leadership briefing on the mock Energy Data Platform initiative.
Use these sources:
- /01_Mock_Project_Charter_Energy_Data_Platform.docx
- /09_Mock_HSSE_KPI_Dashboard.xlsx
- /10_Mock_Project_Cost_Schedule_Control.xlsx
Create a structured briefing with:
- Executive summary
- Key findings
- Risks and dependencies
- Decisions required
- Recommended next actions
Clearly separate facts from assumptions and mention which source supports each major finding where possible.
Expected result
- A structured report that combines project, HSSE, and cost context.
- Clear distinction between evidence, assumptions, and recommendations.
- Decision points are written for a leadership audience rather than as raw notes.
Exercise 3 - Use Analyst for spreadsheet insight
Use Analyst to examine /08_Mock_Procurement_Spend_Analysis.xlsx.
Analyze:
- Top spend categories
- Supplier concentration
- Unusual or high-value transactions
- Possible cost-saving opportunities
- Recommended management actions
Return the answer as a table and include a short explanation of the analysis steps used.
Exercise 4 - Compare Researcher, Analyst, and Copilot Chat
| Tool | Best use | Validation focus |
|---|---|---|
| Researcher | Multi-step research across files and broader context. | Check sources, assumptions, and completeness. |
| Analyst | Advanced analysis of tables, spreadsheets, and numerical patterns. | Check calculations, filters, chart logic, and assumptions. |
| Copilot Chat | Quick summaries, drafting, brainstorming, and follow-up questions. | Check whether the answer is sufficient for the task or needs deeper research. |
[!TIP] If Researcher or Analyst is not available, complete the lab as a prompt-design and output-review exercise using standard Copilot Chat. Emphasize source selection, validation, and deciding when deeper reasoning is required.