September digital workplace roundup
September brought a wave of important developments in the digital workplace industry, signalling shifts in how organisations integrate AI, improve employee experience, and adapt to evolving technologies. This roundup looks at some of the most popular stories from the ClearBox team in September. Covering the real value of AI versus the hype, Microsoft’s new Copilot Wave 2 features, and the continued fallout from Meta’s Workplace shutdown.
Copilot Wave 2 features – opportunities and challenges
Microsoft released Copilot Wave 2 on 16th September, introducing features aimed at improving collaboration and productivity. Key updates include Copilot Pages, which converts AI chat sessions into shareable, editable documents, and Copilot Agents, custom AI tools that automate business processes using data from platforms like SharePoint and Dynamics 365.
While these tools promise to improve digital collaboration, their success will depend on how well organisations integrate them into existing workflows. For organisations that can manage this challenges, Copilot Wave 2 has the potential to improve productivity and scale AI-driven workflows.
The role of AI in the digital workplace – real value vs. hype
Artificial intelligence continues to dominate discussion, as more vendors integrate AI into their platforms. While many AI features are well-conceived and provide meaningful support for admins and end users, there is a growing concern that some features have been added merely to check the “AI box.” This trend has been seen across the wider digital workplace industry, extending beyond intranets into broader employee experience tools.
Vendors must prioritise developing AI that genuinely reduces repetitive tasks and improves productivity, rather than adding superficial features. At the same time, organisations must critically evaluate which AI tools will have a real impact on their teams. Given the varying levels of digital literacy across the workforce, a gradual AI rollout—or even a “bring your own bot” (BYOB) approach—could be a more effective strategy. Proper employee research and a clear strategy will be crucial for making AI adoption a success. Read our full discussion on AI and employee experience.
Navigating the Meta Workplace shutdown
With Meta’s Workplace set to be shut down in 2026, many organisations are still exploring alternatives to fill the gap. Workvivo by Zoom has emerged as a top contender, offering similar features with additional functionality. However, organisations conducting due diligence may want to explore other platforms before making a final decision.
The shutdown of Meta’s platform has prompted businesses to re-evaluate their digital workplace tools and ensure that their chosen solutions will meet both their immediate needs and future goals. For those still researching alternatives, it’s important to carefully consider whether Workvivo—or another option—aligns with their employee experience and technological requirements. The ClearBox intranet review report is a great resource to help organisations procuring a Workplace alternative.
Think your internal comms are great? Prove it
Proving the effectiveness of internal communications varies across organisations, but some key metrics remain essential. Metrics like intranet visits, email open rates, and employee engagement surveys help track performance. However, qualitative feedback, such as sentiment analysis, provides deeper insights. For leadership, meaningful insights matter most.
ClearBox’s Suzie Robinson contributed to a recent Reworked article in September exploring what these meaningful insights are.
Shaping the future of the digital workplace
Developments in the digital workplace industry this month underline the growing need for strategic clarity in how organisations adopt new technologies. AI has the potential to transform productivity, but only when it delivers real value, not superficial solutions. Similarly, navigating platform shifts like the Meta Workplace shutdown requires careful evaluation of alternatives that align with broader organisational goals.
For companies to succeed in this changing landscape, they must focus on tools that improve the employee experience. By adopting a measured, thoughtful approach—grounded in real employee needs and supported by clear strategic goals—organisations can harness these innovations to create a more effective digital workplace.
Is there anything we can help with? Whether you’re navigating the complexities of intranet selection or seeking to improve your employee experience, we’re here to help. Contact us to discuss your needs and get tailored advice from our experts.
