Five things to test before you commit
Pilots don't scale linearly. Usage from a small, enthusiastic group rarely predicts enterprise-wide run-rates. Finance and IT should both be wary of any forecast built on pilot data alone.
Seats and consumption are different things. Per-user licences are predictable. Credits, agents and model usage are not, and they shouldn't be forecast as one number.
Don't assume what counts. Whether a given Copilot or AI service draws down your commitment depends on your contract and the meters named in it. Get it confirmed in writing.
Watch the back end of the term. Ramped commitments put the largest obligation in the year you can forecast least.
Prices are moving fast. Model pricing and Copilot billing models are changing quarter by quarter, so a commitment sized on today's rates can age badly.
Know who sizes your commitment and get a second view. Sizing a commitment involves judgement calls on adoption, pricing and eligibility. An independent review helps make sure the final figure reflects your own plans rather than a vendor's assumptions.
Model your range before you commit
Build a low, likely and high 12-month view of seats and credits with the Microsoft AI Spend Estimator.
Renewing or topping up a MACC?
I help organisations build the strategy, budget plan and consumption forecast behind a MACC renewal or top-up, independently and without a Microsoft sales quota. If that would be useful, book an exploratory advisory discussion.
