Evaluating a SharePoint Development Firm: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
SharePoint is a powerful platform that allows organizations to create and manage websites, intranets, and collaboration tools. However, developing and maintaining a SharePoint solution requires specialized knowledge and expertise. Many organizations choose to outsource their SharePoint development to a professional firm. In this guide, we will discuss the key factors to consider when evaluating a SharePoint development firm.
1. Experience and Expertise
When evaluating a SharePoint development firm, it is important to consider their experience and expertise in SharePoint development. Look for firms that have a proven track record of successfully delivering SharePoint projects. Check their portfolio to see if they have worked on projects similar to yours. Additionally, consider the expertise of their team members. Look for certifications and training in SharePoint development.
2. Services Offered
Another important factor to consider is the range of services offered by the SharePoint development firm. Do they offer end-to-end SharePoint development services, including design, development, and maintenance? Can they handle both SharePoint on-premise and SharePoint online projects? It is important to choose a firm that can meet all your SharePoint development needs.
3. Client References
Before hiring a SharePoint development firm, ask for client references. Contact their previous clients and ask about their experience working with the firm. Did the firm deliver the project on time and within budget? Were they responsive to client needs and concerns? Client references can provide valuable insights into the firm’s professionalism and quality of work.
4. Customization and Integration
SharePoint is a highly customizable platform that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of your organization. When evaluating a SharePoint development firm, consider their ability to customize and integrate SharePoint with other systems and applications. Can they develop custom SharePoint solutions that align with your business processes? Can they integrate SharePoint with third-party tools and systems?
5. Support and Maintenance
After the development of your SharePoint solution, ongoing support and maintenance are crucial. Ask the SharePoint development firm about their support and maintenance services. Do they offer managed SharePoint services? Will they provide regular updates and security patches? It is important to choose a firm that can provide reliable support and maintenance to ensure the smooth operation of your SharePoint solution.
Conclusion
Choosing the right SharePoint development firm is essential for the success of your SharePoint project. Consider their experience, services offered, client references, customization and integration capabilities, and support and maintenance services. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can find a SharePoint development firm that can meet your organization’s unique needs and deliver a high-quality SharePoint solution.