Unpacking the Basics of Staff Intranet Development
Introduction
Staff intranets have become an essential tool for organizations to improve internal communication, collaboration, and productivity. With the advancement of technology, intranet development has evolved to provide more sophisticated features and functionalities. In this article, we will explore the basics of staff intranet development, including the different platforms available, the benefits of using SharePoint for intranet development, and the process of outsourcing SharePoint development.
The Different Platforms for Intranet Development
When it comes to developing a staff intranet, there are several platforms to choose from. Two popular options are SharePoint and WordPress. SharePoint is a web-based platform developed by Microsoft, while WordPress is a content management system primarily used for website development. While both platforms have their own strengths and weaknesses, SharePoint is often preferred for intranet development due to its robust features and integration capabilities.
The Benefits of Using SharePoint for Intranet Development
SharePoint offers a wide range of benefits for intranet development. Firstly, it provides a centralized platform for employees to access and share information, documents, and resources. This improves collaboration and ensures that everyone is working with the most up-to-date information. Additionally, SharePoint offers customizable templates and layouts, allowing organizations to create a visually appealing and user-friendly intranet site.
Furthermore, SharePoint integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft products, such as Outlook and Teams, making it easier for employees to communicate and collaborate. It also offers advanced security features, ensuring that sensitive information is protected. Lastly, SharePoint can be deployed both on-premise and online, giving organizations the flexibility to choose the deployment option that best suits their needs.
The Process of Outsourcing SharePoint Development
Outsourcing SharePoint development can be a cost-effective and efficient solution for organizations that do not have the in-house expertise or resources to develop and maintain their intranet. When outsourcing SharePoint development, it is important to choose a reputable SharePoint development agency that has experience in developing customized intranet solutions.
The process of outsourcing SharePoint development typically involves the following steps:
- Requirement gathering: The SharePoint development agency will work closely with the organization to understand their specific requirements and objectives for the intranet.
- Design and development: Based on the requirements, the agency will design and develop the intranet, ensuring that it aligns with the organization’s branding and user experience guidelines.
- Testing and deployment: The agency will conduct thorough testing to ensure that the intranet functions properly and is free from any bugs or errors. Once testing is complete, the intranet will be deployed to the organization’s servers or cloud-based environment.
- Training and support: The agency will provide training to the organization’s employees on how to use and manage the intranet. They will also offer ongoing support and maintenance services to ensure the intranet continues to function smoothly.
Conclusion
Staff intranets play a crucial role in improving internal communication and collaboration within organizations. SharePoint is a powerful platform for intranet development, offering a wide range of features and integration capabilities. Outsourcing SharePoint development can be a cost-effective and efficient solution for organizations that do not have the in-house expertise or resources. By choosing a reputable SharePoint development agency, organizations can ensure the successful development and maintenance of their staff intranet.