SharePoint Intranets: An Overview

23.11.23 08:53 AM Comment(s) By Boitumelo

A write up on all you need to know about SharePoint Intranets

In this blog, we explore SharePoint Intranets: What are SharePoint Intranets? Key Features of SharePoint Intranets. Benefits of SharePoint Intranets. How to create a site in SharePoint. An example of a SharePoint Intranet.

Welcome back to our next blog in the 'What is SharePoint?' series. Our first blog in this series was, 'What is Sharepoint?', where we learned the definition of SharePoint, its history and the key concepts to know when it comes to SharePoint. Now that we are equipped with that foundational knowledge, we can move on to the next part of our series: SharePoint Intranets.

If you work for a medium to large enterprise, you are probably familiar with intranets, specifically, SharePoint intranets. And with the rise of the remote and hybrid work model, more and more organizations are relying on intranets as a place of communication, engagement, collaboration, and productivity.

With this in mind, it is only logical to want to learn as much as you can about using SharePoint Intranets in order to take advantage and maximize your use of the platform.

Information Architecture

Effective information architecture is the backbone of a successful intranet. Organize content logically and establish user-friendly navigation structures.

Security and Compliance

SharePoint provides robust security features, including access controls, permissions, and data protection options. It helps safeguard sensitive information and maintain regulatory compliance.

You may still be on the fence about whether these intranets are necessary, perhaps you're thinking," Another tech 'nice to have' that doesn’t serve a real purpose". You might want to hold off on making that conclusion. SharePoint intranets, intranets in general, have consistently demonstrated their effectiveness and necessity within organizations.

Benefits of SharePoint Intranets

Enhanced productivity

Streamlined processes within SharePoint significantly enhance your employees' productivity. Finding information, collaborating, and completing tasks becomes more efficient and less time-consuming.

Improved communication

Centralized communication tools and resources ensure that everyone in your organization stays informed, connected, and aligned with company goals.

Document Management

Effortless document management reduces the risk of version control issues and lost files, helping your organization operate more smoothly.

Reduction of emails and meetings

SharePoint intranets can significantly reduce the reliance on emails and meetings. By centralizing communication and documentation, team members can find the information they need without flooding their inboxes, resulting in more productive workdays.

Mobile accessibility

In an increasingly mobile world, SharePoint intranets are accessible on a variety of devices, accommodating remote and on-the-go workers.

Recognition and Reward

Who doesn't like to be acknowledged, and publicly at that? On this platform, team members can be given recognition for their hard work and achievements. Public recognition can boost morale and foster a positive work environment.

Scalability

SharePoint is highly scalable, making it suitable for both small businesses and large enterprises. It can adapt and grow with your organization's evolving needs.

Reinforcement of Brand Values

SharePoint allows you to reinforce your organization's brand values and identity. Through customization and branding options, you can ensure that your intranet reflects and promotes the core values of your organization.

Encouragement of Knowledge Sharing

Knowledge sharing is at the heart of successful organizations. SharePoint intranets provide a platform for employees to share their expertise, collaborate on projects, and pool their collective knowledge, fostering innovation and growth.

Simplification of employee onboarding

Efficient employee onboarding is crucial for a seamless integration of new team members. SharePoint simplifies this process by providing a structured platform where new employees can access training materials, company policies, and relevant resources.

How to create a site in SharePoint

Things to consider before implementing your SharePoint Intranet

Before implementing SharePoint in your organization, it's essential to assess its suitability and potential benefits. Here are key factors to consider:

Business Goals: How closely does SharePoint align with your organization's objectives?
User Adoption: How willing and able are your employees to adopt and adapt to SharePoint?
Integration: Does SharePoint seamlessly integrate with your existing tools and software?
Customization: Can you tailor SharePoint to meet your organization's unique needs and branding?
Cost and ROI: Consider the upfront and ongoing costs balanced against the expected return on investment.
Scalability: Ensure SharePoint can grow with your organization's future needs.

An example of a SharePoint Intranet

We've been discussing the theory of SharePoint intranets, and you might have a mental image of what a typical intranet looks like based on the earlier screenshots in this blog. However, we're here to expand your horizons and show you the potential. To truly grasp the possibilities, watch the video below, where our CEO, Craig, takes you on a journey through the GTconsult team's very own intranet, demonstrating how we navigate this dynamic platform.

SharePoint intranets have the potential to revolutionize the way your organization operates. Their extensive features and customization options make them versatile and valuable additions to any business.

Don't know where to even start? We've got you, this is where we shine! As a leading provider of SharePoint services with over a decade of experience and expert staff on hand to bring your SharePoint intranet to life, we're here to guide you every step of the way.

If you're interested in exploring SharePoint for your organization, reach out to our experts for a consultation. We're here to help you make an informed decision and get the most out of your SharePoint intranet.

Need our help? Click here to get in touch.

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