Evaluating a SharePoint Development Company: Key Criteria to Consider
Introduction
SharePoint is a powerful platform that allows organizations to create and manage websites, intranets, and other collaborative solutions. However, developing and maintaining a SharePoint environment requires specialized skills and expertise. Many organizations choose to outsource their SharePoint development to a professional company that specializes in SharePoint development.
Why Outsource SharePoint Development?
Outsourcing SharePoint development offers several advantages. Firstly, it allows organizations to focus on their core competencies while leaving the technical aspects of SharePoint development to experts. Secondly, outsourcing can be cost-effective as it eliminates the need to hire and train in-house SharePoint developers. Lastly, outsourcing provides access to a wider pool of talent and expertise, ensuring that the SharePoint solution is developed and maintained by professionals.
Key Criteria to Consider
When evaluating a SharePoint development company, there are several key criteria to consider:
1. Experience and Expertise
One of the most important criteria to consider is the experience and expertise of the SharePoint development company. Look for a company that has a proven track record of successfully delivering SharePoint projects. Check their portfolio and client testimonials to get an idea of their capabilities. Additionally, ensure that the company has certified SharePoint developers who are well-versed in the latest SharePoint technologies and best practices.
2. Range of Services
Consider the range of services offered by the SharePoint development company. Do they offer end-to-end SharePoint development services, including requirements gathering, design, development, testing, and support? Can they handle both SharePoint on-premise and SharePoint online projects? Look for a company that can provide a comprehensive solution tailored to your specific needs.
3. Customization Capabilities
Customization is often a key requirement for SharePoint projects. Ensure that the SharePoint development company has the necessary expertise to customize SharePoint according to your organization’s unique requirements. This includes custom branding, custom workflows, integration with other systems, and more. Ask for examples of their previous customization work to assess their capabilities.
4. Managed Services
Consider whether the SharePoint development company offers managed services for ongoing support and maintenance. SharePoint requires regular updates, security patches, and troubleshooting. A company that offers managed services can ensure that your SharePoint environment is always up-to-date and running smoothly. This can save your organization time and resources in the long run.
5. Communication and Collaboration
Effective communication and collaboration are crucial for successful SharePoint development projects. Look for a company that has a streamlined communication process and is responsive to your needs. They should be able to understand your requirements, provide regular updates, and address any concerns or issues promptly. Additionally, consider their approach to collaboration and whether they encourage client involvement throughout the development process.
Conclusion
Choosing the right SharePoint development company is essential for the success of your SharePoint project. By considering the criteria mentioned above, you can ensure that you partner with a company that has the necessary experience, expertise, and capabilities to deliver a high-quality SharePoint solution tailored to your organization’s needs.