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AI in the Workplace

Discover how AI tools can support everyday work across the university by improving productivity, streamlining tasks, and helping staff analyze information, draft communications, and manage projects more efficiently.

Artificial intelligence is quickly becoming part of everyday work across higher education. AI tools can help staff draft communications, summarize information, analyze data, and manage tasks more efficiently, freeing up time for more strategic and student-focused work.

At the same time, AI should be used thoughtfully. Outputs may not always be accurate, and it’s important to protect sensitive data, follow university guidelines, and apply human judgment when using these tools. When used responsibly, AI can be a valuable partner in supporting teaching, research, and administrative work across the university.  

Practical Uses of AI in the Workplace

Below are some examples of how to use AI for productivity, meetings, communication, marketing, and data analysis.  Visit the AI Tools page to learn more about specific applications.

AI for Productivity

Save time, stay organized, and reduce repetitive work

AI can help streamline daily tasks so you can focus on higher-value work. Whether you’re drafting documents, organizing projects, or summarizing information, AI tools can significantly improve efficiency.

What you can do:

  • Draft emails, reports, and internal documents quickly
  • Summarize long policies, PDFs, or reports
  • Generate task lists, agendas, and project plans
  • Brainstorm ideas for events, programs, or initiatives
  • Automate repetitive workflows and reminders

Example:

Use Copilot in Word to turn a rough outline into a polished report, then summarize it into a short executive brief for leadership, or use ChatGPT or Gemini to quickly generate a first draft before refining it in Microsoft tools.

AI for Meetings & Communication

Make meetings more efficient and communication more effective

AI tools can help you capture key points, reduce note-taking, and improve clarity in communication.

What you can do:

  • Automatically transcribe meetings
  • Generate summaries and action items
  • Draft follow-up emails
  • Improve tone and clarity in messages
  • Translate communications for broader accessibility

Example:

After a meeting, generate a summary with action items in Zoom AI Companion or Copilot in Teams, which can be shared instantly with attendees.

AI for Marketing 

Create engaging, consistent, and high-quality content

AI can help you develop compelling content and maintain a consistent voice across channels.

What you can do:

  • Draft newsletters, announcements, and web content
  • Create social media posts and campaigns
  • Design graphics and presentations
  • Generate and edit images
  • Repurpose content across platforms

Example:

Draft a newsletter using Copilot or Gemini, then Adobe Express to turn it into a visually engaging email or social campaign.

AI for Data Analysis

Turn data into insights—quickly and clearly

AI makes it easier to work with data, even if you’re not an expert. Ask questions in plain language and get meaningful insights.

What you can do:

  • Analyze spreadsheets using natural language
  • Generate charts and visualizations automatically
  • Identify trends, patterns, and anomalies
  • Translate complex data into clear summaries
  • Support data-informed decision-making

Example:

UseMicrosoft Excel with Microsoft Copilot to analyze advising appointment data. By asking questions like “Which weeks have the highest demand?” or “When are no-shows most common?”, they quickly identify peak times and adjust staffing schedules to better support students.

Responsible Use of AI

Use AI thoughtfully and responsibly in your work

While AI can be a powerful tool, it’s important to use it in ways that align with university policies and best practices.

Keep in mind:

  • Protect sensitive data: Do not input confidential or student/staff information into AI tools unless approved
  • Verify accuracy: AI-generated content may contain errors—always review before sharing
  • Maintain transparency: Be clear when AI is used in official communications, if required
  • Follow university guidelines: Adhere to institutional policies on AI use

Getting Started

  • Start small—try AI for drafting emails or summarizing documents
  • Explore Copilot features already built into Microsoft 365
  • Use tools like ChatGPT or Gemini for brainstorming and first drafts
  • Use AI as a support tool, not as a replacement for your expertise
  • Share successful use cases with your team

AI is most effective when combined with your knowledge and judgment. By integrating these tools into your daily work, you can save time, improve quality, and focus on what matters most.