SharePoint team sites in Office 365 are an excellent tool for organizations that want to improve productivity and streamline their workflows. Here are ten of the most important powers of SharePoint team sites in Office 365:
1. Document Management: SharePoint team sites offer a comprehensive document management system that allows teams to store, manage, and share files securely. The system includes version control, check-in/check-out functionality, and the ability to set permissions to control access to documents.
In addition, SharePoint team sites also offer document libraries, which allow users to upload, organize, and share documents with their team members. The document libraries can be customized with metadata, which makes it easier to search for specific documents. Document libraries also support co-authoring, which means team members can work on the same document at the same time and see each other's changes in real-time.
2. Collaboration: SharePoint team sites offer a variety of collaboration tools that can help teams work together more effectively. For example, team members can use discussion boards to share ideas, ask questions, and provide feedback. Discussion boards can be used for ongoing discussions or to collaborate on specific projects.
SharePoint team sites also offer calendars, which can be used to schedule events, meetings, and deadlines. Calendars can be customized with different views, such as daily, weekly, or monthly, and can be color-coded to differentiate between different events.
3. Project Management: SharePoint team sites offer powerful project management tools that can help teams manage projects more effectively. For example, teams can use task lists to create and manage tasks, assign them to team members, and set due dates. Task lists can be customized with different views, such as Gantt charts, which make it easy to see the progress of a project.
SharePoint team sites also offer project tracking tools, which allow teams to track the status of a project, identify potential risks, and adjust plans accordingly. Project tracking tools can be customized with different views, such as burndown charts, which make it easy to see the progress of a project over time.
4. Customizable Dashboards: SharePoint team sites offer customizable dashboards that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of your team. Dashboards can be customized with different widgets, web parts, and other tools, which make it easier to access important information and stay informed.
For example, teams can use widgets to display recent activity, upcoming events, or important documents. Web parts can be used to display news, weather, or stock information. Customizable dashboards make it easier for team members to find the information they need, without having to search for it.
5. Workflow Automation: SharePoint team sites offer powerful workflow automation tools that can help teams automate repetitive tasks, such as document approvals, and stay on track. Workflows can be used to streamline processes, increase productivity, and reduce errors.
For example, teams can use workflows to automatically send notifications when a new document is added to a library, or when a task is completed. Workflows can also be used to route documents for approval, or to notify team members when a task is overdue. Workflow automation can help teams stay on top of their tasks and avoid delays.
6. Business Intelligence: SharePoint team sites offer powerful business intelligence tools that can help teams analyze data and make informed decisions. Business intelligence tools can be used to identify trends, analyze data sets, and create reports.
For example, teams can use data visualization tools to create charts, graphs, and maps that make it easy to see patterns and trends. Reporting tools can be used to generate reports, dashboards, and scorecards that provide insights into performance and help teams make informed decisions.
7. Mobile Accessibility: SharePoint team sites are accessible from any device, including smartphones and tablets, making it easy for team members to access important information and collaborate on the go. The SharePoint mobile app allows users to access their team sites, documents, and lists, and stay up-to-date with the latest news and activities.
The mobile app also supports offline access, which means team members can access and work on documents even when they are not connected to the internet. Mobile accessibility is especially important for teams that work remotely or have members who travel frequently.
8. Integration with Other Office 365 Apps: SharePoint team sites integrate seamlessly with other Office 365 apps, such as Teams, Outlook, and OneNote. Integration with other apps makes it easier for teams to collaborate and share information across different platforms.
For example, teams can use Teams to have video calls and chat with each other while working on a document in SharePoint. Outlook can be used to send and receive emails related to a specific project or task. OneNote can be used to take notes and store information related to a specific project or task.
9. Security and Compliance: SharePoint team sites offer robust security and compliance features that help teams protect sensitive information and ensure regulatory compliance. SharePoint team sites offer several security features, including role-based permissions, access control, and data encryption.
SharePoint team sites also offer compliance features, such as data retention policies, eDiscovery, and audit logs. Compliance features help teams meet regulatory requirements and protect sensitive information from unauthorized access or disclosure.
10. Scalability and Flexibility: SharePoint team sites are highly scalable and flexible, making them suitable for teams of all sizes and types. SharePoint team sites can be customized with different templates, web parts, and add-ins, which make it easier to meet the specific needs of your team.
SharePoint team sites can also be integrated with other tools and systems, such as CRM systems, ERP systems, and social media platforms. Integration with other tools and systems makes it easier for teams to collaborate and share information across different platforms.
In conclusion, SharePoint team sites in Office 365 offer a wide range of powerful features and capabilities that can help teams work more efficiently and effectively. From document management to collaboration, project management, and security, SharePoint team sites provide the tools and resources that teams need to succeed in today's fast-paced business environment. By leveraging these powers, teams can increase productivity, reduce errors, and achieve their goals more quickly and effectively.
