The challenges and benefits of migrating from traditional SharePoint to SharePoint apps

Introduction

SharePoint has been a popular platform for enterprise content management and project collaboration for many years. However, with the rise of cloud computing and the increasing demand for mobile accessibility, traditional SharePoint may not be able to meet all the evolving needs of businesses. This is where SharePoint apps come in. In this article, we will explore the challenges and benefits of migrating from traditional SharePoint to SharePoint apps, and how it can improve your enterprise content management and project collaboration.

What are SharePoint Apps?

SharePoint apps are web applications that can be integrated with SharePoint to enhance its functionality and provide additional features. Unlike traditional SharePoint, which is installed on-premises, SharePoint apps are hosted in the cloud and can be accessed from anywhere, using any device with an internet connection. They are designed to be lightweight and easy to use, with a focus on specific tasks or functions. SharePoint apps can be created by Microsoft, third-party developers, or even your own organization's IT department.

The Challenges of Migrating to SharePoint Apps

While migrating from traditional SharePoint to SharePoint apps can bring numerous benefits, it is not without its challenges. Here are some of the main challenges you may face during the migration process:

1. Compatibility

One of the biggest challenges of migrating to SharePoint apps is ensuring compatibility with your existing SharePoint environment. SharePoint apps may not work seamlessly with older versions of SharePoint or with customizations that you have made to your current SharePoint deployment. This means that you may need to modify your existing SharePoint environment or upgrade to a newer version before you can migrate to SharePoint apps. It is important to thoroughly test the compatibility of SharePoint apps with your environment before making the switch.

2. User Adoption

Another challenge of migrating to SharePoint apps is getting your users to adopt and embrace the new technology. Users who are accustomed to the traditional SharePoint interface may find it difficult to transition to the new app-based interface. This can lead to resistance to change and a reluctance to use the new SharePoint apps. To overcome this challenge, it is important to provide thorough training and support to your users, and to clearly communicate the benefits of using SharePoint apps for their daily tasks and workflows.

3. Data Migration

Migrating your data from traditional SharePoint to SharePoint apps can be a complex and time-consuming process. You will need to carefully plan and execute the migration to ensure that all your data is transferred accurately and securely. This may involve mapping and restructuring your existing data to fit the new app-based architecture, as well as resolving any data compatibility issues that may arise. It is important to have a clear understanding of your data requirements and to involve your IT department or a professional migration service provider to assist with the data migration process.

4. Customizations and Integrations

If you have made customizations or integrations with your existing SharePoint environment, migrating to SharePoint apps may require reconfiguring or rebuilding those customizations and integrations. SharePoint apps have their own development framework and may not support the same customization options or integration points as traditional SharePoint. This means that you may need to invest additional time and resources to recreate or adapt your customizations and integrations for SharePoint apps. It is important to assess the impact of migrating to SharePoint apps on your existing customizations and integrations, and to plan accordingly.

The Benefits of Migrating to SharePoint Apps

Despite the challenges, migrating from traditional SharePoint to SharePoint apps can bring numerous benefits to your organization. Here are some of the main benefits you can expect to gain:

1. Improved Accessibility and Mobility

SharePoint apps are designed to be accessible from anywhere, using any device with an internet connection. This means that your employees can access and collaborate on SharePoint content and projects on the go, whether they are in the office, on a business trip, or working from home. SharePoint apps provide a consistent user experience across different devices, making it easier for your employees to stay connected and productive, no matter where they are located.

2. Enhanced Functionality

SharePoint apps can enhance the functionality of your SharePoint environment by providing additional features and capabilities. Whether you need to streamline your document management processes, automate your project workflows, or improve your team collaboration, there are a wide range of SharePoint apps available to meet your specific needs. SharePoint apps are designed to be lightweight and focused on specific tasks or functions, making it easier for your users to find and use the tools they need to get their work done more efficiently.

3. Scalability and Flexibility

SharePoint apps are hosted in the cloud, which means that they can easily scale to accommodate your growing business needs. You can add or remove apps as required, without the need for additional hardware or infrastructure. This scalability and flexibility allows you to adapt your SharePoint environment to meet changing business requirements, without incurring significant costs or disruptions. SharePoint apps also provide automatic updates and maintenance, ensuring that you always have access to the latest features and security enhancements.

4. Simplified Administration and Management

SharePoint apps are designed to be user-friendly and easy to manage. They have a simplified administration interface that allows you to easily configure, deploy, and monitor your apps. You can control who has access to each app, set permissions and security settings, and manage app updates and licenses. SharePoint apps also provide analytics and reporting tools, allowing you to track app usage, performance, and user feedback. This simplified administration and management of SharePoint apps can help reduce the burden on your IT department and improve overall system governance.

Conclusion

Migrating from traditional SharePoint to SharePoint apps can be a complex and challenging process, but the benefits it brings to your enterprise content management and project collaboration are well worth the effort. SharePoint apps provide improved accessibility and mobility, enhanced functionality, scalability and flexibility, and simplified administration and management. While there are challenges such as compatibility, user adoption, data migration, and customizations and integrations, these can be overcome with careful planning, training, and support. If you are looking to modernize your SharePoint environment and take advantage of the latest cloud and mobile technologies, migrating to SharePoint apps is a step in the right direction.