What to Look for in a SharePoint Development Firm
Introduction
SharePoint is a powerful platform that allows organizations to create websites, intranets, and collaboration spaces. However, developing and managing a SharePoint solution requires expertise and experience. Many organizations choose to outsource their SharePoint development to a specialized firm. In this article, we will discuss what to look for in a SharePoint development firm to ensure you choose the right partner for your project.
1. Experience and Expertise
When selecting a SharePoint development firm, it is crucial to consider their experience and expertise in SharePoint development. Look for a firm that has a proven track record of successfully delivering SharePoint projects. They should have a team of experienced SharePoint developers who are well-versed in SharePoint development best practices and have a deep understanding of the platform’s capabilities.
2. Custom SharePoint Development
Every organization has unique requirements and goals for their SharePoint solution. A good SharePoint development firm should offer custom development services to tailor the platform to your specific needs. They should be able to understand your business processes and design a SharePoint solution that aligns with your objectives. Look for a firm that has experience in developing custom SharePoint solutions and can provide examples of their previous work.
3. SharePoint Intranet Development
SharePoint is widely used for building intranets, which are internal websites that facilitate communication, collaboration, and information sharing within an organization. If you are looking to develop a SharePoint intranet, make sure the development firm has expertise in intranet design and development. They should be able to create a user-friendly and visually appealing intranet that meets your organization’s needs.
4. SharePoint On-Premise and Online
SharePoint is available in two deployment options: on-premise and online. On-premise SharePoint is installed and managed on your organization’s servers, while SharePoint Online is a cloud-based solution provided by Microsoft. Depending on your organization’s requirements and preferences, you may choose either option. Look for a SharePoint development firm that has experience in both on-premise and online deployments, so they can recommend the best option for your organization and provide the necessary expertise for implementation.
5. Managed SharePoint Services
SharePoint is not a one-time development project; it requires ongoing maintenance, updates, and support. A good SharePoint development firm should offer managed SharePoint services to ensure the smooth operation of your SharePoint solution. These services may include regular backups, security updates, troubleshooting, and user support. Make sure the firm has a dedicated support team that can provide timely assistance when needed.
Conclusion
Choosing the right SharePoint development firm is crucial for the success of your SharePoint project. Consider their experience and expertise, their ability to provide custom SharePoint development, their knowledge of SharePoint intranet development, their experience with both on-premise and online deployments, and their offering of managed SharePoint services. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can select a SharePoint development firm that will meet your organization’s needs and help you achieve your SharePoint goals.