Why Custom Intranet Development Could Be the Answer
Introduction
In today’s digital age, businesses are constantly looking for ways to improve their internal communication and collaboration. One solution that has gained popularity is the use of intranets. An intranet is a private network that is only accessible to employees within an organization. It serves as a central hub for information, documents, and communication tools, making it easier for employees to access the resources they need to do their jobs effectively.
The Limitations of SharePoint Intranet
SharePoint is a popular platform for intranet development. It offers a range of features and functionalities that can be customized to meet the specific needs of an organization. However, there are some limitations to using SharePoint as an intranet solution.
Firstly, SharePoint development can be complex and time-consuming. It requires technical expertise and knowledge of the platform to create a customized intranet that aligns with the organization’s goals and requirements. This can be a challenge for businesses that do not have an in-house IT team or the resources to hire a SharePoint development agency.
Secondly, SharePoint intranets are often hosted on-premise, which means that businesses are responsible for managing and maintaining the infrastructure. This can be costly and time-consuming, as it requires regular updates, backups, and security measures to ensure the intranet is running smoothly and securely.
Lastly, SharePoint online, the cloud-based version of SharePoint, may not offer the same level of customization and control as the on-premise version. While it provides a convenient and accessible solution, it may not meet the specific needs of every organization.
The Benefits of Custom Intranet Development
Custom intranet development offers a solution to the limitations of SharePoint intranets. By outsourcing SharePoint development to a specialized agency, businesses can leverage the expertise and experience of professionals who are well-versed in the platform.
One of the key benefits of custom intranet development is the ability to create a tailored solution that aligns with the organization’s unique requirements. The development agency can work closely with the business to understand their goals, processes, and workflows, and design an intranet that supports and enhances them. This level of customization ensures that the intranet is intuitive, user-friendly, and meets the specific needs of the employees.
Another advantage of custom intranet development is the ability to choose the hosting option that best suits the organization. While SharePoint on-premise may be suitable for some businesses, others may prefer the convenience and scalability of SharePoint online. The development agency can provide guidance and recommendations based on the organization’s needs and budget, ensuring that the intranet is hosted in a way that maximizes efficiency and minimizes costs.
Additionally, outsourcing SharePoint development allows businesses to focus on their core competencies and leave the technical aspects to the experts. The development agency will handle the installation, configuration, and maintenance of the intranet, freeing up the organization’s resources to focus on their day-to-day operations.
The Role of Intranet Design in Custom Development
Intranet design plays a crucial role in custom development. A well-designed intranet enhances user experience, improves productivity, and promotes collaboration within the organization. When designing a custom intranet, the development agency will consider factors such as the organization’s branding, user interface, navigation, and content organization.
The intranet design should reflect the organization’s brand identity, creating a cohesive and professional look and feel. This helps to instill a sense of pride and ownership among employees, making them more likely to engage with the intranet and utilize its features.
User interface design is another important aspect of intranet design. The interface should be intuitive and easy to navigate, allowing employees to quickly find the information and tools they need. This can be achieved through clear and consistent labeling, logical information architecture, and a responsive design that adapts to different devices and screen sizes.
Content organization is also crucial for an effective intranet design. The development agency will work with the organization to identify the most important and frequently accessed information and ensure that it is easily accessible. This may involve creating custom dashboards, search functionalities, and personalized user profiles to streamline the user experience.
Conclusion
Custom intranet development offers businesses a flexible and tailored solution for improving internal communication and collaboration. By outsourcing SharePoint development to a specialized agency, organizations can benefit from the expertise and experience of professionals who can design and implement an intranet that meets their unique needs. With a well-designed and customized intranet, businesses can enhance productivity, streamline workflows, and foster a culture of collaboration and innovation.