meetings that constantly interrupt you. Too little time to complete all your tasks properly. And in the meantime, you are expected to perform even better. Recognizable? According to Microsoft's 2025 Work Trend Index, we are at a turning point. Companies are increasingly adopting AI-supported work models where humans collaborate with digital agents. This transition is already impacting how work is organized and executed.
The frontier firm as the new standard
The report introduces a new organizational model: the Frontier Firm. These companies build their processes around AI—not as an addition, but as a core component. It revolves around 'intelligence on demand,' where digital agents are deployed as full-fledged team members. Leaders indicate that 2025 is a crucial year to reshape strategy and operations. Companies that are already doing this prove to be more successful: 71% of their employees perceive their organization as thriving. The global average stands at only 37%.
From productivity to talent
The pressure to increase productivity is growing. At the same time, 80% of employees report a lack of time and energy. Digital labor is becoming the solution to bridge this 'Capacity Gap.' Consequently, 82% of leaders expect to deploy AI agents as an extension of their workforce within the next 12 to 18 months.
AI is also transforming the labor market. Startups with an AI focus are hiring twice as fast as Big Tech. A new dynamic is emerging, where innovation no longer comes from large players, but from AI-native companies. Companies that lag behind not only lose talent but also competitive strength.
New way of collaborating: human and agent
The classic organizational structure is shifting towards flexible 'Work Charts'. Not the role, but the outcome is central. Humans and agents form teams that are assembled based on tasks and objectives. Currently, 46% of leaders are using AI for full automation of processes, particularly in customer service, marketing, and product development.
To make this work effectively, the 'human-agent ratio' becomes essential. When do you need people, when do you need AI, and when do you need both? Consider customer contact, complex decisions, or ethically charged situations — human responsibility remains necessary in those cases.
Every employee becomes a boss agent.
AI calls for a new mindset. Employees must learn to collaborate with agents and deploy them effectively. This 'agent boss' builds, trains, and directs their digital team. Leaders expect that within five years, their teams will not only use agents but also actively manage them.
While leaders are at the forefront, this process is accelerating rapidly. AI skills are becoming crucial for career development. Companies that invest now in training, tools, and guidance are preparing their people for new, strategic roles.
Microsoft Copilot: the practical applications
Microsoft is launching the second major update of Microsoft 365 Copilot. This makes AI more accessible and powerful in the workplace. New features enable the use of AI agents for research, design, note-taking, searching, and content creation. The Copilot Control System allows IT professionals to exert targeted control over who can deploy which agent.
This is the moment to take action.
2025 marks the beginning of a new era. The Frontier Firm demonstrates that AI is no longer an experiment, but a core component of business operations. Work is changing. Companies that invest now in digital labor, AI skills, and hybrid teams are leading the way. Waiting is no longer an option — this is the moment to make choices that will shape your future.