Microsoft 365 Copilot: Retirement of role-to-skill mapping files in People Skills

Starting August 22, 2026, Microsoft 365 Copilot will retire role-to-skill mapping files in People Skills. Skills inferencing will no longer use these files but will continue identifying custom skills automatically. No action or migration is needed; administrators should update documentation and inform relevant staff.

[What and Why]

Beginning on August 22, 2026, we will retire the optional role-to-skill mapping file used in the advanced setup experience for People Skills in Microsoft 365 Copilot.

Previously, administrators could upload a mapping file to associate custom skills with specific job roles or titles. People Skills now infers relevant custom skills directly and surfaces skills based on demonstrated user expertise and activity. As a result, role-to-skill mapping files no longer influence skills inferencing and are being retired. This change simplifies administration while continuing to support custom skills libraries.

[Rollout Schedule]

• General Availability (Worldwide): Beginning on August 22, 2026

[Impact on Your Organization]

Who is affected

• Organizations using People Skills in Microsoft 365 Copilot with advanced setup
• Administrators who previously uploaded or currently maintain role-to-skill mapping files

Platforms/Services

• People Skills in Microsoft 365 Copilot
• Microsoft 365 admin center

What will happen

• Previously uploaded role-to-skill mapping files are no longer used for skills inferencing.
• The option to upload a role-to-skill mapping file during advanced setup will be removed.
• Skills inferencing will continue to identify relevant custom skills.
• Existing custom skills libraries will remain supported and continue to function normally.
• No migration or reimport of existing custom skills libraries is required.
• This change will be enabled automatically as part of the service update.

[Action Required/Recommendations]

No action is required.

We recommend that administrators:

• Review and update internal documentation that references creating, maintaining, or uploading role-to-skill mapping files.
• Inform People Skills administrators of this retirement.
• Remove operational processes that depend on maintaining role-to-skill mapping files.

Learn more: Set up People Skills | Microsoft 365 Copilot | Microsoft 365 | Microsoft Learn

[Compliance considerations]

No compliance considerations identified. Review as appropriate for your organization.