Using SharePoint as Your Primary Intranet Platform
Introduction
SharePoint is a powerful platform developed by Microsoft that can be used as a primary intranet platform for businesses. It offers a wide range of features and capabilities that can enhance collaboration, communication, and productivity within an organization. In this article, we will explore the benefits of using SharePoint as your primary intranet platform and how it can improve your intranet design and development.
Benefits of SharePoint as an Intranet Platform
SharePoint offers numerous benefits as an intranet platform. Here are some of the key advantages:
1. Centralized Document Management
With SharePoint, you can easily store, organize, and manage all your documents in a centralized location. This eliminates the need for multiple file servers and ensures that everyone in the organization has access to the latest version of a document. SharePoint also provides version control, allowing you to track changes and revert to previous versions if needed.
2. Improved Collaboration
SharePoint enables seamless collaboration among team members. It allows users to create and edit documents together in real-time, making it easy to work on projects and share ideas. SharePoint also offers features such as discussion boards, task lists, and calendars, which facilitate collaboration and improve team productivity.
3. Customizable Intranet Design
SharePoint provides a range of customization options, allowing you to design your intranet according to your organization’s branding and requirements. You can create custom layouts, add your company logo, and choose from a variety of themes and templates. This ensures that your intranet reflects your organization’s identity and enhances user experience.
4. Integration with Other Microsoft Tools
SharePoint seamlessly integrates with other Microsoft tools such as Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. This integration allows users to access and edit documents directly from these applications, making it easier to collaborate and share information. SharePoint also integrates with Microsoft Teams, providing a unified platform for communication and collaboration.
5. Enhanced Security and Permissions
SharePoint offers robust security features to protect your organization’s sensitive data. You can set permissions at various levels, ensuring that only authorized users have access to specific documents and information. SharePoint also provides auditing and reporting capabilities, allowing you to track user activity and monitor document usage.
SharePoint On-Premise vs SharePoint Online
SharePoint is available in two deployment options: on-premise and online. Here’s a comparison of the two:
SharePoint On-Premise
SharePoint on-premise is installed and hosted on your organization’s servers. This gives you complete control over your intranet environment and allows for extensive customization. However, it requires a dedicated IT team to manage and maintain the infrastructure, which can be costly and time-consuming.
SharePoint Online
SharePoint online is a cloud-based solution hosted by Microsoft. It offers the same features and capabilities as SharePoint on-premise but eliminates the need for infrastructure management. SharePoint online is more cost-effective and scalable, making it a popular choice for small to medium-sized businesses. However, it may have some limitations in terms of customization and control.
Outsourcing SharePoint Development
Outsourcing SharePoint development can be a smart choice for businesses that lack the in-house expertise or resources to build and maintain their intranet platform. By partnering with a SharePoint development agency, you can leverage their knowledge and experience to create a customized intranet that meets your specific requirements.
Benefits of Outsourcing SharePoint Development
Here are some benefits of outsourcing SharePoint development:
1. Expertise and Experience
A SharePoint development agency has a team of experienced professionals who specialize in SharePoint development. They have in-depth knowledge of the platform and can provide valuable insights and recommendations to optimize your intranet design and development.
2. Cost Savings
Outsourcing SharePoint development can be more cost-effective than hiring an in-house team. You can save on recruitment, training, and infrastructure costs. Additionally, a SharePoint development agency can provide ongoing support and maintenance, reducing the need for dedicated IT resources.
3. Time Efficiency
By outsourcing SharePoint development, you can accelerate the development process and launch your intranet platform faster. A SharePoint development agency has the expertise and resources to handle complex projects efficiently, ensuring timely delivery.
4. Customization and Scalability
A SharePoint development agency can tailor your intranet platform to your specific needs and requirements. They can create custom workflows, integrate third-party applications, and develop unique features that enhance your intranet’s functionality. Additionally, they can ensure that your intranet is scalable, allowing for future growth and expansion.
Managed SharePoint Services
In addition to development, many SharePoint development agencies also offer managed SharePoint services. These services include ongoing support, maintenance, and monitoring of your intranet platform. By outsourcing the management of your SharePoint environment, you can focus on your core business activities while ensuring that your intranet is secure, up-to-date, and performing optimally.
Benefits of Managed SharePoint Services
Here are some benefits of managed SharePoint services:
1. Proactive Monitoring and Maintenance
A managed SharePoint service provider will proactively monitor your intranet platform, ensuring that it is always available and performing well. They will perform regular maintenance tasks such as applying updates and patches, optimizing performance, and resolving any issues that may arise.
2. Enhanced Security
Managed SharePoint services include robust security measures to protect your intranet platform from unauthorized access and data breaches. The service provider will implement security best practices, conduct regular security audits, and ensure compliance with industry regulations.
3. 24/7 Support
A managed SharePoint service provider offers round-the-clock support to address any technical issues or user queries. They have a dedicated support team that can quickly resolve issues and provide assistance to your employees, ensuring uninterrupted access to your intranet platform.
4. Scalability and Flexibility
Managed SharePoint services can scale with your business needs. The service provider can accommodate increased user traffic, storage requirements, and additional functionalities as your organization grows. They can also customize the service to align with your specific business processes and workflows.
Conclusion
SharePoint is a versatile platform that can serve as your primary intranet platform. Whether you choose SharePoint on-premise or SharePoint online, it offers numerous benefits such as centralized document management, improved collaboration, customizable intranet design, integration with other Microsoft tools, and enhanced security and permissions. By outsourcing SharePoint development and utilizing managed SharePoint services, you can optimize your intranet design and development, save costs, and ensure the smooth operation of your intranet platform.