SharePoint has undergone significant changes with each new version release. Understanding the key differences between versions is crucial when evaluating your current infrastructure and planning for future developments. This article will provide best practices for analyzing changes and highlight the essential features to utilize in each version.
One of the most critical aspects of SharePoint is its content management system. With each new release, Microsoft has improved the platform’s ability to manage and organize content effectively. For instance, SharePoint 2013 introduced the concept of metadata-driven navigation, allowing users to create custom views based on specific attributes. This feature significantly improved the discovery and organization of content.
SharePoint 2016 brought even more enhancements to its content management capabilities. The release included a revamped document library, which enabled users to create custom views and filters for documents, making it easier to find relevant information. Additionally, SharePoint 2016 introduced the concept of “Quick Edit” in lists, allowing users to make common edits without having to open each item individually.
When analyzing changes between versions, it’s essential to consider the added features, improved performance, and any deprecated or removed functionality. For instance, SharePoint 2013 included the concept of “App Parts,” which allowed developers to create custom web parts for their sites. In contrast, SharePoint 2016 introduced the “Web Part Gallery” feature, providing users with a centralized location to discover and install web parts.
In addition to content management, another critical aspect of SharePoint is its collaboration features. The platform offers a range of tools designed to facilitate communication and teamwork among users. For example, SharePoint 2013 introduced the concept of “Sites,” which enabled users to create custom sites for specific projects or teams. This feature allowed users to share documents, discussions, and tasks in a centralized location.
SharePoint 2016 further expanded its collaboration capabilities with the introduction of “Teams” and “Channels.” These features enable users to organize conversations by topic or project, making it easier to manage complex communication workflows. Additionally, SharePoint 2016 introduced the concept of “Power BI integration,” allowing users to easily embed business intelligence dashboards into their sites.
When evaluating different versions of SharePoint, it’s essential to consider your organization’s unique needs and requirements. For instance, if you’re looking for improved content management capabilities, SharePoint 2016 may be the best choice. However, if you’re focused on enhancing collaboration features, SharePoint 2013 might be a better option.
To get the most out of your SharePoint investment, it’s crucial to understand how different versions can help you achieve your goals. By analyzing changes and utilizing the essential features in each version, you can create a customized platform that meets the unique needs of your organization.
Some key best practices for evaluating different versions of SharePoint include:
- Understand the new features and improvements introduced in each version
- Identify deprecated or removed functionality to avoid compatibility issues
- Consider the performance enhancements and any changes to system requirements
- Evaluate how different versions can help you achieve your organizational goals
- Test drive different versions to determine which one best meets your needs
By following these best practices, you can create a customized SharePoint platform that effectively supports your organization’s content management and collaboration needs.