Creating SharePoint Pages with Copilot

Seconds turn to minutes, and minutes into hours. You've hit a creative block and the fresh ideas just aren't coming. This is where the power of generative AI can help get those creative juices flowing.

The Microsoft SharePoint team recently announced a new feature that has content creators very interested. Authors can use the power of Copilot in SharePoint to streamline page creation. This new feature will change how pages are created in SharePoint. Copilot was built for situations just like this. By combining the power of Large Language Models (LLMs), and your data in the Microsoft Graph, Copilot can generate a solid first pass and foundation for engaging SharePoint pages.

According to a study by Microsoft around the impact of Generative AI, 60% of content creators surveyed reported that AI tools significantly reduced their cognitive effort when completing tasks.

Copilot will leverage generative AI and Microsoft Graph, using your existing Word, PowerPoint, PDF, and Loop documents as grounding data. These source materials will be used to generate high-quality page content. All of this is achieved while upholding our commitment to data security and privacy in the enterprise.

Why It Matters

The intention for this feature will make page creation faster and easier. Providing page authors a quick way to generate new content while maintaining core standards. With these built-in templates and design ideas, Copilot helps you create visually appealing, engaging pages while consistently meeting your organization's standards.

Generative AI is revolutionizing so many different areas with content creation. This aligns with the broader trend of digital transformation, where organizations are leveraging AI to enhance productivity and innovation.

This increased productivity has an impact. Users of Generative AI tools, including Copilot, created and edited 10% more documents compared to those who did not use these tools. These statistics highlight the tangible benefits of Generative AI in enhancing productivity and reducing cognitive load, making it a valuable tool for content creation and overcoming creative blocks.

How Does It Work?

Microsoft has outlined two approaches to creating pages in SharePoint with Copilot

Option 1 - Create Pages from Templates with Prompts

This method offers a selection of ready-made templates, including Newsletter, Event, Status Update, and Process. These templates provide a structured foundation, enabling you to quickly create pages with a consistent look and feel. After choosing a template, you can fill in keywords in the provided prompts. Authors also have the option to upload their own files for enhanced results. This approach is perfect for users who prefer a guided experience or need to follow organization design standards.

Tips & Tricks When Working From Templates

• Add Source Files: You can attach up to 5 files. The first file is the main content source, while the others support it. For example, if you add a product release plan, rename a section to "Release Plan," and Copilot will use that document to fill in the section.
• Automatic Subject Suggestions: If you've added files, Copilot will suggest a page subject title based on them, so you don't need to fill it in manually.
• Enterprise Search: You can enter your project name or meeting title in the subject field without attaching files. Copilot will find relevant content from your documents, emails, meetings, and chats to create the page.
• Customize Sections: You can change section titles or formats. For example, rename a section to “Quote from Adam” or ask Copilot to show content as "Upcoming initiatives in a table" or "Latest news in bullet points."

Option 2 - Create Pages with Open Prompts

The second option gives you more flexibility. With open prompts, you can create page content in a dynamic way. Begin by typing an open prompt (at the top of your page), and Copilot will use AI to suggest great layouts and content ideas. This method is nice for users who like to try different designs and make their pages unique.

Tips & Tricks For Open Prompts

• Prompt Templates: Prompt templates are found at the bottom right. They give examples of how to instruct Copilot to create your page. You can tweak these to fit your target audience, industry, or the sections you need for a personalized page.
• Source Files: If you have a Word document that's being reviewed and approved, and you want to create a high-fidelity mapping page, try this prompt: “Create a news post from the file. Use the same structure and section names, keeping the original content unchanged.”
• Design Ideas: When the page is generated, Copilot will use design ideas for each section and pick keywords from the content to choose relevant stock images. More specific section titles, like “renewable energy types,” can help Copilot select better images for your page.
• Iterate and Experiment: Chances are, Copilot will not get it perfect especially in the first go. Don't worry. Instead try refining your prompts to continuously improve your page. You can use auto-rewrite with Copilot to adjust sections in different tones and lengths, and incorporate design ideas to make the sections visually appealing as you refine the page.

From our experience, when working with any generative AI, the stronger and well-thought out the prompt the better the outcome is. Not sure where to begin with your prompts? Learn the art of prompting. Take a look at our 50 Copilot Starter Prompts Toolkit.

Hitting a Creative Block? Try Design Ideas!

Design ideas make your page look nice and have the right information. You can use them to get ideas for how your page should look. Click the Design ideas button on the right side of the page to see suggestions. Curious on how the Design Ideas can help you? Check out our guide to SharePoint's AI-Powered Design Ideas.

Authoring Copilot in SharePoint Availability

The feature has started rolling out to Targeted Release customers and will continue to roll out to all customers through the end of April 2025.

Roadmap ID

Microsoft Roadmap ID 418126

How This Helps

Copilot in SharePoint not only speeds up the page creation process but also ensures consistency and adherence to organizational standards. By leveraging existing documents and data, it minimizes the need for manual input, allowing authors to focus on refining and enhancing content.

Here are some additional ways this will impact content creation in SharePoint:

• Enhanced Productivity: By automating the initial content creation process, Copilot allows authors to focus on higher-level tasks, such as content refinement and strategy.
• Consistency and Quality: Built-in templates and design ideas ensure that all pages meet organizational standards, reducing the risk of errors and inconsistencies.
• Security and Privacy: Copilot leverages Microsoft Graph and adheres to strict data security and privacy protocols, ensuring that your content is safe and compliant.

Ready to Elevate Your SharePoint Experience?

To initiate the creation of a new page using Copilot, you may select the +New button located in the command bar of your SharePoint site and choose Page with Copilot. There are two methods for creating pages with Copilot: either by utilizing out-of-the-box designer curated templates displayed at the bottom center, or by entering specific instructions using open prompt box at the top.  

As SharePoint experts, we specialize in building engaging, high-impact digital workplaces that drive collaboration and productivity. Whether you want to update your SharePoint site or create a new intranet, we can help you make the most of these powerful tools.

Explore Other Insights Around SharePoint & Copilot Features

• Guide to SharePoint's AI-Powered Design Ideas for a Modern Intranet
• SharePoint: From Concept, To creation, To Impact Highlights
• Unlocking Flexible Sections in SharePoint Pages
• Key IT Strategies for Copilot Adoption