Although at first glance Microsoft SharePoint seems like it would mostly benefit large businesses that deal with a number of internal and external department, many small businesses see substaintial gains in terms of productivity and project efficiency through SharePoint. When taking into account the improvement in overall workflow, the costs are generally negated--if the free version of the software (WSS) doesn't suffice and additional customization and add-ons are required (as is usually the case).
Regardless of which version of SharePoint is implemented (there are several suitable to different structures), its benefits shouldn't be overlooked by small businesses. Here are three ways SharePoint can revolutionize the way your small business works--for the better.
1. Project Management
It's easy to see how small businesses usually suffer the most with unorganize projects, especially when collaboration with external vendors is a key aspect of the project. SharePoint is ideal for managing small projects, able to track where everything is and how the virtual workspaces are used collaboratively. Not only does it boast excellent tracking, assignment and organizational features, it has a powerful search engine that allows project managers to easily find the latest versions of files. Plus, SharePoint easily integrates with all Microsoft programs, so calendar organization is a breeze with synchronization with Outlook.
2. Information Access
Servers work well but as far as tiered information access and document sharing is concerned, they can suffer multiple drawbacks--especially for quick, multiple-person projects. SharePoint allows employees to find the documents they're looking for without having to consult the IT department or dig through server files. This eases up requests for HR and project managers, as employees can find their own documents easier. All content employees need can be posted to the intranet site, effectively reducing administrative processing time.
3. Collaboration
The revolution really comes into play through SharePoint's collaborative features. All users, employees and any external vendors alike, can share documents, ideas, events, or any files as needed--in addition to discussion pages with features like bug tracking, wikis for technical or catalogued information, and bulletin boards for tracking meeting minutes. Especially important to small businesses, as employees typically fill multiple roles, this keeps the knowledge accessible and open for collaboration. This means that if an employee leaves or is abscent, SharePoint will have a record of their knowledge and experience to share with those taking up the role.
Microsoft SharePoint can revolutionize the way small businesses look at project management and day-to-day workflow. Its organizational and collaborative features are unmatched, especially when combined with its high customizability.
