Choosing the Right Intranet Development Company: Factors to Consider
Introduction
When it comes to developing an intranet for your organization, choosing the right development company is crucial. An intranet serves as a central hub for communication, collaboration, and information sharing within a company. It can greatly improve productivity, efficiency, and employee engagement. However, not all intranet development companies are created equal. In this article, we will discuss the factors you should consider when selecting a company for your intranet development needs.
1. Expertise in SharePoint Development
SharePoint is one of the most popular platforms for intranet development. It offers a wide range of features and functionalities that can be customized to meet the specific needs of your organization. Therefore, it is important to choose a development company that has expertise in SharePoint development. Look for a company that has a proven track record of successfully implementing SharePoint intranets for other clients. They should have a deep understanding of SharePoint’s capabilities and be able to provide customized solutions tailored to your organization’s requirements.
2. Experience in Intranet Design
In addition to SharePoint development expertise, the company you choose should also have experience in intranet design. A well-designed intranet is not only visually appealing but also user-friendly and intuitive. It should be easy for employees to navigate and find the information they need. Look for a company that has a strong portfolio of intranet designs and can provide examples of their previous work. They should be able to create a design that reflects your company’s branding and aligns with your overall corporate identity.
3. Customization and Flexibility
Every organization has unique requirements and workflows. Therefore, it is important to choose a development company that can provide customization and flexibility in their solutions. They should be able to tailor the intranet to meet your specific needs and integrate it with your existing systems and applications. Look for a company that offers a range of customization options and has experience in integrating third-party tools and services with SharePoint. This will ensure that your intranet is a seamless part of your organization’s digital ecosystem.
4. Outsourcing and Managed Services
Consider whether you want to outsource the development of your intranet or opt for managed services. Outsourcing can be a cost-effective option, especially if you don’t have in-house expertise in SharePoint development. Look for a development company that offers outsourcing services and has a dedicated team of SharePoint experts. On the other hand, if you prefer to have ongoing support and maintenance for your intranet, consider choosing a company that offers managed services. They will take care of the day-to-day management and updates of your intranet, allowing your internal IT team to focus on other strategic initiatives.
5. Client References and Testimonials
Before making a final decision, ask the development company for client references and testimonials. Reach out to their previous clients and ask about their experience working with the company. Did they deliver the project on time and within budget? Were they responsive to feedback and able to address any issues that arose during the development process? A reputable development company should be able to provide positive references and testimonials from satisfied clients.
Conclusion
Choosing the right intranet development company is essential for the success of your intranet project. Consider the company’s expertise in SharePoint development, experience in intranet design, customization and flexibility options, outsourcing and managed services, and client references and testimonials. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can ensure that you select a company that will deliver a high-quality intranet solution tailored to your organization’s needs.