Session Abstract

When organisations migrate from a traditional file server to SharePoint, one question comes up almost every time: "Will I still be able to find my documents?" The answer is yes — and then some. But a great search experience in Microsoft 365 doesn't happen by accident. It requires a deliberate strategy, the right tools, and a clear understanding of what each tool is actually good for. This demo-rich session takes you on a practical journey through the full SharePoint search landscape. We start with maximising Microsoft Search out of the box — including Bookmarks, Acronyms, and Search Analytics — before moving to PnP Modern Search for tailored, metadata-driven discovery portals that dramatically improve user adoption. We finish with an honest look at what Copilot genuinely adds to content discovery: the shift from recall ("show me files containing this word") to understanding ("explain this policy and highlight what's changed"). You'll walk away with a clear decision framework for choosing between these three approaches — and the practical knowledge to implement each one. You will leave this session having: Discovered how Microsoft Search works out of the box and how Bookmarks, Acronyms, and Search Analytics can make it significantly smarter without any custom development Learned how PnP Modern Search enables tailored discovery experiences — from Project Finders to Knowledge Hubs — using JSON templates, Adaptive Cards, and metadata-driven filters Understood the difference between search for recall and Copilot for understanding, and where each approach delivers the most value Uncovered a practical decision framework: when to use Microsoft Search, when to invest in PnP Modern Search, and when Copilot is the right answer Out of scope: This session will not cover Microsoft Search connectors to external data sources, enterprise search architecture, or Copilot Studio development. Information architecture and governance are touched on briefly as context but are not the focus of this session. Assumed knowledge: You should be familiar with SharePoint Online as a platform — ideally with some experience in a migration or intranet project. No prior knowledge of PnP Modern Search or Copilot is required. Audience: IT Professionals, Consultants, Digital Workplace Specialists, End Users | Level: 200

Note to event organizers

Search is consistently one of the top concerns I hear from organisations moving from file servers to SharePoint — and one of the biggest opportunities to drive adoption when it's done well. I have delivered this session at Collabdays Bletchley Park (2024), Collabdays Antwerp (2025), and Collabdays Vianen (2025), where the combination of practical PnP Modern Search configuration and an honest assessment of Copilot's role resonated strongly with attendees. As a Microsoft SharePoint MVP, I bring fi

Pieter Kops

Pieter is the teamlead of the Business Productivity team at ACA IT-Solutions. He has been working with SharePoint solutions from 2007. All this time his focus has been on getting companies on board with the ever changing platform, increase their productivity whilst maintaining a secure and safe environment. He has proficient knowledge of creating Intranets, building a great search environment, automating processes using both the Power Platform and Nintex. One of the most important questions he asks his customer is: "What is your optimal outcome?". He then will think of and build the best suitable solution. Implementing these solutions require adoption. Therefore Pieter also has certified adoption skills in his backpocket. Pieter is a Microsoft MVP for Copilot and SharePoint and has been speaking at customer events and user groups.

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