Developing an Effective SharePoint Intranet: Things to Consider
Introduction
SharePoint is a powerful platform that allows organizations to create and manage their own intranet sites. With its wide range of features and capabilities, SharePoint offers a flexible and customizable solution for building an effective intranet. However, developing a SharePoint intranet requires careful planning and consideration to ensure its success. In this article, we will discuss the key factors to consider when developing an effective SharePoint intranet.
1. Define Your Objectives
Before starting the development process, it is important to clearly define your objectives for the SharePoint intranet. What are the specific goals you want to achieve with the intranet? Are you looking to improve communication and collaboration among employees? Do you want to streamline business processes and workflows? By clearly defining your objectives, you can ensure that the SharePoint intranet is designed and developed to meet your organization’s specific needs.
2. Choose the Right SharePoint Version
SharePoint is available in two main versions: SharePoint On-Premise and SharePoint Online. SharePoint On-Premise is installed and hosted on your organization’s own servers, while SharePoint Online is a cloud-based solution hosted by Microsoft. Both versions have their own advantages and considerations. If you have specific security or compliance requirements, SharePoint On-Premise may be the better option. On the other hand, SharePoint Online offers greater scalability and accessibility. Consider your organization’s needs and resources when choosing the right SharePoint version for your intranet.
3. Design a User-Friendly Interface
The success of a SharePoint intranet depends on its usability and user experience. Designing a user-friendly interface is crucial to ensure that employees can easily navigate and find the information they need. Consider the layout, navigation menus, and search functionality when designing the intranet. It is also important to ensure that the intranet is responsive and accessible on different devices, such as desktops, laptops, and mobile devices.
4. Customize and Personalize
One of the key advantages of SharePoint is its ability to be customized and personalized according to your organization’s needs. Take advantage of SharePoint’s customization options to tailor the intranet to your specific requirements. This can include customizing the branding and design, creating custom workflows and forms, and integrating third-party applications. By customizing and personalizing the intranet, you can create a unique and tailored experience for your employees.
5. Consider Outsourcing SharePoint Development
Developing a SharePoint intranet requires technical expertise and knowledge of SharePoint’s capabilities. If your organization does not have the in-house resources or expertise to develop the intranet, consider outsourcing SharePoint development to a reputable SharePoint development agency. A SharePoint development agency can provide the necessary expertise and experience to ensure the successful development and implementation of your SharePoint intranet. They can also provide ongoing support and maintenance services to keep the intranet running smoothly.
Conclusion
Developing an effective SharePoint intranet requires careful planning and consideration. By defining your objectives, choosing the right SharePoint version, designing a user-friendly interface, customizing and personalizing the intranet, and considering outsourcing SharePoint development, you can create a powerful and efficient intranet that meets your organization’s specific needs. Remember to regularly evaluate and update your intranet to ensure its continued success.