Real Microsoft 365 and AI Guidance

I’m a systems engineer who learned design. I solve problems and occasionally fix very old houses.

For 20+ years, I've been deep in the Microsoft ecosystem, with a focus on designing systems for collaboration, communication and work.

I started my career at Microsoft, inside Redmond headquarters. These days I work closely with the people who need to use Microsoft 365, SharePoint and AI tools every day. As a Microsoft 365 and AI strategist, consultant and designer, this website is where I reflect on what's working, what's not, and what's coming next.

Latest

Writings on AI, Microsoft 365 and more.

Featured
A simple starter kit for Microsoft Purview sensitivity labels
A simple starter kit for Microsoft Purview sensitivity labels

A simple design approach for starting with sensitivity labels in Microsoft Purview, which are a critical layer of security in Microsoft 365. They don’t need to be complicated!

How to plan and design for AI agents
How to plan and design for AI agents

The real work of building AI Agents is in the planning. I recommend becoming a business analyst of your own work—not to give it all away to AI, but to figure out where you want it to focus.

Why learning with AI is about creating the right conditions to learn
Why learning with AI is about creating the right conditions to learn

Passive AI consumption isn't learning. This post explores how to create the right conditions to actually master new skills.

I tried every note-taking app. Why I chose the messy one.
I tried every note-taking app. Why I chose the messy one.

If your note-taking system feels like work, you won't use it. I finally found a tool I actually enjoy using and feel confident I can find anything again.

AI and the case for cautious adoption
AI and the case for cautious adoption

I use AI, but cautiously, while being as intentional as I can about where I bring AI into my life—because ignoring something speeding out of the train station generally makes the problem worse later.

Do you need the best people to build a great team?
Do you need the best people to build a great team?

A fictional detective reminded me how to build great teams: given direction, clear expectations, and encouragement, people could flourish. It's not about finding the best people—it's about creating the conditions where good people become great.

How learning at work is changing
How learning at work is changing

Learning to swim as an adult taught me something unexpected about the future of corporate training. After struggling through fear, frustration, and countless failed attempts, I realized what no AI could have given me, and what many organizations are missing in their approach to employee development.

AI and the theft dilemma
AI and the theft dilemma

And does it even matter?

Short answer: Yes and yes.

Long answer: It's complicated.

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