Critical Dos and Don'ts for Successful SharePoint Projects

Embarking on a SharePoint project can be a game-changer for your organization's collaborative and document management capabilities. However, the path to success is intricate, requiring strategic planning, effective execution, and consistent management. In this article, we delve into the critical dos and don'ts for SharePoint developers to ensure successful project outcomes.

The Importance of Planning

Before diving into SharePoint development, it's vital to lay a strong foundation with strategic planning. This stage involves understanding organizational needs, setting goals, and defining a clear project scope.

Dos for SharePoint Project Planning

• Conduct a Thorough Needs Assessment: Understand your organization's specific requirements and how SharePoint can address them.
• Align with Business Goals: Ensure that the project aligns with the broader objectives of the organization.
• Define Clear Objectives: Set clear, measurable goals for what the SharePoint implementation should achieve.
• Allocate Resources Wisely: Plan for budget, manpower, and technical resources.

Don'ts in SharePoint Planning

• Don't Skip Stakeholder Engagement: Failing to involve key stakeholders can lead to unmet expectations and resistance.
• Avoid Vague Requirements: Lack of clear requirements can derail the project scope.
• Do Not Underestimate Training: Overlooked end-user training can compromise user adoption and satisfaction.

Dos for SharePoint Development

With the groundwork laid, it's time to move to the development phase. This is where strategic execution turns plans into reality.

• Leverage Built-In Features: Utilize out-of-the-box SharePoint capabilities to save time and ensure stability.
• Follow Best Practices for Coding: Adhere to standardized development practices to ensure code quality and maintainability.
• Implement Security Protocols: Security should be a priority. Define user permissions carefully.
• Test Iteratively: Conduct regular testing throughout development to catch issues early on.

Don'ts in SharePoint Development

• Avoid Over-Customization: Customizing too heavily can lead to difficult maintenance and upgrades.
• Don't Ignore Mobile Responsiveness: In today's world, SharePoint solutions must be accessible on mobile devices.
• Avoid Neglecting Performance Optimization: Poorly optimized systems can frustrate users and impact productivity.

Best Practices for Project Management

Managing a SharePoint project involves consistent oversight, collaboration, and iteration. Successful management practices are pivotal for achieving the desired outcomes.

Dos in SharePoint Project Management

• Document Everything: Keep detailed records of decisions, changes, and feedback for future reference.
• Foster Open Communication: Maintain a clear line of communication among team members and stakeholders.
• Regular Review and Adjustments: Regularly assess progress and make necessary adjustments to stay on track.
• Ensure User Feedback: Involve users in feedback loops to continuously improve the solution based on real needs.

Don'ts in SharePoint Project Management

• Don't Delay Issue Resolution: Address challenges promptly to prevent them from escalating.
• Don't Overlook Documentation: Lack of documentation can lead to confusion and inefficiencies.
• Avoid Sidelining Project Reviews: Continue to evaluate project successes and areas for improvement regularly.

Dos for Post-Deployment

Once deployed, the focus shifts to ensuring the SharePoint solution is effectively used and supported. This phase is crucial for long-term success and sustainability.

• Conduct User Training: Regular training sessions to ensure users are comfortable and knowledgeable in using SharePoint.
• Implement a Feedback System: Allow users to provide ongoing feedback to spot improvement areas.
• Plan for Continuous Improvement: Make post-deployment improvements part of your strategy.
• Maintain System Health: Perform regular maintenance checks and updates.

Don'ts for Post-Deployment

• Don't Ignore User Support: Ensure robust support systems are in place to assist users.
• Avoid Overlooking Maintenance: Neglecting regular maintenance can lead to system failures.
• Don't Stop Iterating: Continuous refinement is key to keeping the system efficient and relevant.

Conclusion