The A-Z Guide of SharePoint Intranet for Businesses
Introduction
SharePoint is a powerful platform developed by Microsoft that allows businesses to create and manage their own intranet websites. Intranets are private networks that are accessible only to employees of an organization. They serve as a central hub for communication, collaboration, and information sharing within the company.
Benefits of SharePoint Intranet
Implementing a SharePoint intranet offers numerous benefits for businesses. Some of the key advantages include:
- Centralized document management
- Improved collaboration and communication
- Enhanced productivity and efficiency
- Streamlined business processes
- Customizable and scalable
SharePoint On-Premise vs SharePoint Online
SharePoint is available in two deployment options: on-premise and online. On-premise SharePoint is installed and hosted on the organization’s own servers, while SharePoint Online is a cloud-based solution provided by Microsoft. The choice between the two depends on various factors such as budget, IT infrastructure, and security requirements.
Intranet Design and Development
Designing and developing a SharePoint intranet requires careful planning and consideration. Here are the key steps involved in the process:
- Identify business requirements and goals
- Create a site structure and information architecture
- Design the user interface and user experience
- Develop and customize the intranet using SharePoint tools and features
- Test and deploy the intranet
- Train employees on how to use the intranet effectively
Outsourcing SharePoint Development
Many businesses choose to outsource their SharePoint development to specialized agencies. Outsourcing offers several advantages, including:
- Access to expertise and experience
- Cost savings
- Time savings
- Focus on core business activities
- Scalability and flexibility
Custom SharePoint Development
While SharePoint offers a wide range of out-of-the-box features, businesses often require custom development to meet their specific needs. Custom SharePoint development involves creating tailored solutions using SharePoint’s development framework. This allows businesses to extend the functionality of their intranet and integrate it with other systems and applications.
Managed SharePoint Services
Managing a SharePoint intranet requires ongoing maintenance, updates, and support. Many businesses opt for managed SharePoint services, where a third-party provider takes care of these tasks. Managed services ensure that the intranet remains secure, up-to-date, and optimized for performance.
Conclusion
SharePoint intranets are powerful tools for businesses, enabling improved collaboration, communication, and productivity. Whether you choose to develop your intranet in-house or outsource it to a specialized agency, careful planning and consideration are essential for a successful implementation. With the right design, development, and ongoing management, a SharePoint intranet can become a valuable asset for any organization.