The Agentic AI Revolution: Leveraging Microsoft AI and Autonomous Agents to Transform Work and Business - Softcover

Hawkins, Will; Calder, Nancie

Softcover

ISBN 13: 9798868820212

Publisher: Apress, 2026

Synopsis

The evolution of AI isn’t just about predictive models and automation; it’s about the emergence of “agentic” capabilities—autonomous and specialized AI systems that operate with a sense of independence by acting on a user’s behalf. This book explores through dialogue between the authors, the transformative role of AI in modern organizations, beginning with its evolution from automation to augmentation and the paradigm shift in human-machine collaboration.

The book starts with Microsoft's AI ecosystem, showcasing tools like Copilot, Power Platform, Dynamics 365, and Azure AI that enable AI agentic solutions. It further emphasizes responsible AI implementation, covering ethical guidelines, risk mitigation, and security measures with a specific focus on agentic systems. Finally, it provides a roadmap for businesses and professionals to adapt to an agentic workforce, measuring AI’s impact while preparing for future breakthroughs. 

After reading this book, you will be able to leverage agentic systems at scale and also address the implications of using agentic AI responsibly.

What You Will Learn:

• The foundations of “agency” in AI
• Practical strategies for implementing agentic AI solutions using Microsoft’s ecosystem
• Best practices in Responsible AI, ethical considerations, and risk mitigation for autonomous agents
• Actionable next steps for embracing agentic AI in day-to-day work and broader AI transformation efforts

Who This Book Is For:

AI engineers, Business Analysts, and enterprise architects curious about specialized AI strategies

About this title

About the Author

Will is an Azure AI and Microsoft Fabric Engineer, as well as a Data Scientist by trade, with a deep-rooted background in AI and machine learning—long before "Copilot" became synonymous with AI applications. Over the past four years, Will has been on a journey of self-realization and self-actualization through the lens of the world’s data. Beginning his career as an Econometrician with Statistics Canada, he later became the Lead Digital Twins Expert for Healthcare at Avanade, followed by a role as Lead AI Expert at ITRAK 365. These experiences laid the foundation for founding his own company, RitewAI.

For the past two years, Will has been building RitewAI into a leading firm specializing in Microsoft’s AI stack. Leveraging deep expertise across Microsoft Fabric, Azure AI, and the Power Platform, RitewAI empowers Microsoft ISVs, partners, and customers to drive AI innovation through consulting, engineering, and strategic advisory services. Will was also recently recognized as a Copilot Studio MVP and just finished publishing his first book, AI Essentials Principles for Navigating the Next Tech Renaissance.

Nancie Calder is a seasoned technology executive, thought leader, and advocate for the transformative power of AI and CRM in modern business. Nancie is the Global Lead for the Dynamics 365 CRM Practice at Avanade, a joint venture between Accenture and Microsoft, and she has spent over three decades guiding organizations through complex digital transformations.

A recognized Microsoft Contact Center MVP, Nancie is at the forefront of innovation where AI meets customer experience. Her expertise lies at the intersection of customer experience, AI, and enterprise software strategy. Throughout her career, she has partnered with Fortune 500 companies to reimagine sales, service, and marketing operations using Microsoft technologies, including Dynamics 365, Copilot and the Power Platform.

Nancie is also a frequent speaker at global conferences, including Microsoft Ignite, NA Summit, Dynamics Minds, DynamicsCon, and the AI & Copilot Summit, where she shares real-world insights on the future of agentic AI, trust-based automation, and sustainable CRM practices.  Beyond her client work, Nancie is deeply invested in community-building and mentorship. She leads community-based programs, helping to grow the next generation of CRM and AI talent. When she's not writing or speaking, she can often be found hiking the Bruce Trail in Canada.

From the Back Cover

The evolution of AI isn’t just about predictive models and automation; it’s about the emergence of “agentic” capabilities—autonomous and specialized AI systems that operate with a sense of independence by acting on a user’s behalf. This book explores, through dialogue between the authors, the transformative role of AI in modern organizations, beginning with its evolution from automation to augmentation and the paradigm shift in human-machine collaboration.

The book starts with Microsoft's AI ecosystem, showcasing tools like Copilot, Power Platform, Dynamics 365, and Azure AI that enable AI agentic solutions. It further emphasizes responsible AI implementation, covering ethical guidelines, risk mitigation, and security measures with a specific focus on agentic systems. Finally, it provides a roadmap for businesses and professionals to adapt to an agentic workforce, measuring AI’s impact while preparing for future breakthroughs. 

After reading this book, you will be able to leverage agentic systems at scale and also address the implications of using agentic AI responsibly.

What You Will Learn:

• The foundations of “agency” in AI
• Practical strategies for implementing agentic AI solutions using Microsoft’s ecosystem
• Best practices in Responsible AI, ethical considerations, and risk mitigation for autonomous agents
• Actionable next steps for embracing agentic AI in day-to-day work and broader AI transformation efforts

Edition details

• Publisher: Apress
• Publication date: 2026
• Language: English
• ISBN 13: 9798868820212
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 176