10 Common SharePoint Project Mistakes
02/09/2019
Deliver a Successful SharePoint Project
SharePoint, Microsoft’s collaboration platform, can transform how organisations manage communication, documents, and teamwork. However, without careful planning, projects can face delays, budget overruns, and adoption challenges. To avoid these issues, it is important to follow structured steps that ensure a smooth SharePoint implementation.
Over the years, we have seen many stalled or failed SharePoint projects. Most of them involve intranet portals or collaboration platforms that took too long to complete, exceeded budgets, or tried to deliver too many features at once. Fortunately, with the right approach, these problems can be prevented.
10 Crucial Steps for a Successful SharePoint Project
1. Establish Clear Ownership
Every SharePoint project needs a **dedicated project owner** with a clear vision and the authority to make key decisions. Although this person does not need to be a SharePoint expert, they must guide the project and ensure it stays on track.
2. Define Your Objectives
Before starting, clearly define what you want SharePoint to achieve. Are you improving **document management, collaboration, or security**? By setting clear goals, you can ensure the project delivers real value. Our SharePoint consultancy services can help you outline the best approach.
3. Set Realistic Estimates
Many projects run into trouble because of **unrealistic timelines and budgets**. Underestimating the effort required often leads to missed deadlines and unexpected costs. If you are unsure how to plan, seeking **expert guidance** can help ensure an accurate estimate.
4. Control Project Scope
Scope creep is one of the biggest reasons SharePoint projects fail. Adding extra features after the project has started can slow progress and increase costs. Instead, focus on delivering **the most valuable features first** and introduce improvements later.
5. Communicate Effectively
When changes are not communicated clearly, end users may resist using SharePoint. Therefore, keeping all stakeholders informed and explaining **why SharePoint is being introduced** will help with adoption. Learn more about SharePoint’s collaboration features on Microsoft’s official site.
6. Move Beyond File Shares
Many organisations make the mistake of treating SharePoint as a **basic file storage system**. However, it is much more than that. Using **metadata tagging and structured content types** improves searchability and document management.
7. Invest in User Training
Even the best SharePoint system will fail if employees do not know how to use it. Providing **training sessions** ensures users understand key features, which increases adoption and productivity. Explore our SharePoint training options.
8. Implement a Strong Data Governance Plan
Data governance is essential for security and compliance. SharePoint includes **built-in governance tools** that help manage permissions, retention policies, and compliance with standards such as **GDPR and ISO 27001**. A well-planned **governance strategy** ensures data integrity and security.
9. Plan for Continuous Improvement
A SharePoint project does not end at launch. Regular **user feedback, process automation, and system enhancements** will keep the platform useful. Therefore, planning for continuous updates will increase long-term value.
10. Involve End Users from the Start
User involvement is crucial throughout the project. By gathering feedback during **planning, testing, and post-launch phases**, organisations can ensure SharePoint aligns with employee needs, making it easier to adopt.
Ensure SharePoint Success with OfficeLabs
By following these steps and prioritising **clear communication, governance, and training**, your organisation can achieve a **successful SharePoint implementation**.
Ready to unlock the full potential of SharePoint?
OfficeLabs offers expert **SharePoint consultancy and development services** to help organisations deploy SharePoint effectively. Our team specialises in **SharePoint intranet solutions**, automation, and user training.
Learn more about our SharePoint intranet solutions and SharePoint consultancy services.
Contact us today to discuss your SharePoint project and ensure a smooth, successful deployment.
