Outsourcing SharePoint Development: Weighing the Pros and Cons
Introduction
SharePoint is a powerful platform that allows organizations to create websites, intranets, and collaboration tools. However, developing and maintaining a SharePoint solution can be a complex and time-consuming task. Many organizations choose to outsource their SharePoint development to specialized agencies. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of outsourcing SharePoint development.
Pros of Outsourcing SharePoint Development
1. Access to Expertise
By outsourcing SharePoint development to a specialized agency, organizations can gain access to a team of experts who have extensive knowledge and experience in SharePoint development. These experts can provide valuable insights and guidance throughout the development process, ensuring that the solution meets the organization’s specific needs and requirements.
2. Cost Savings
Outsourcing SharePoint development can be a cost-effective solution for organizations. By outsourcing, organizations can avoid the need to hire and train in-house developers, which can be expensive and time-consuming. Additionally, outsourcing allows organizations to pay for development services on a project basis, rather than having to invest in expensive infrastructure and licenses.
3. Time Savings
Developing a SharePoint solution in-house can be a time-consuming process. By outsourcing, organizations can save time and focus on their core business activities, while the specialized agency takes care of the development process. This can result in faster development and deployment of the SharePoint solution.
Cons of Outsourcing SharePoint Development
1. Lack of Control
Outsourcing SharePoint development means handing over control of the development process to a third-party agency. This can result in a lack of control over the development timeline, quality, and overall outcome of the project. Organizations need to carefully choose a reliable and trustworthy agency to ensure that their SharePoint solution is developed to their satisfaction.
2. Communication Challenges
Outsourcing SharePoint development can introduce communication challenges, especially if the agency is located in a different time zone or speaks a different language. Effective communication is crucial for the success of any development project, and organizations need to establish clear lines of communication with the agency to ensure that their requirements are understood and implemented correctly.
3. Security Concerns
SharePoint solutions often contain sensitive and confidential information. When outsourcing SharePoint development, organizations need to ensure that the agency has robust security measures in place to protect their data. This includes secure development practices, data encryption, and adherence to industry best practices for data protection.
Conclusion
Outsourcing SharePoint development can be a beneficial option for organizations looking to leverage the power of SharePoint without the hassle of in-house development. However, it is important for organizations to carefully consider the pros and cons before making a decision. By choosing a reliable and trustworthy agency, establishing clear lines of communication, and ensuring data security, organizations can successfully outsource their SharePoint development and reap the benefits of a customized and efficient SharePoint solution.