Introduction
SharePoint is a powerful collaboration and document management platform that many organizations use to streamline their workflows and increase productivity. While most users are familiar with the basic features, there are numerous hidden features of SharePoint that can further enhance your experience and efficiency. In this article, we’ll introduce you to five hidden SharePoint features you should know about to get the most out of this versatile platform.
Top 5 SharePoint Online Features
Feature 1: Document version history
One of the most valuable but often overlooked SharePoint features is document version history. This feature allows you to track and manage changes to your documents over time.
How to access and use the version history
To access a document’s version history, simply right-click on the document in your library, select “Version History” and you will see a detailed list of all the changes that have been made to the document, including who made them and when. You can also restore previous versions if required.
Advantages of using the version history
Version history ensures that no important changes are lost or important information is accidentally overwritten. It provides a clear audit trail and makes it easy to revert to previous versions if something goes wrong.
Feature 2: Metadata navigation
Metadata navigation is another powerful tool that allows you to organize and find documents more efficiently. Metadata allows you to categorize and tag documents so that they are easier to find.
Setting up metadata navigation
To set up metadata navigation, go to your library settings and select the option “Settings” for metadata navigation ” under “General settings” There you can select which metadata fields should be used for navigation.
Advantages of using metadata for the organization
Metadata navigation simplifies the search for documents as you can filter and sort according to specific criteria. This can save a lot of time and reduce frustration when dealing with large amounts of data.
Feature 3: Fast editing
Quick Edit is a feature that allows you to edit multiple items in a list or library at once, similar to a spreadsheet.
Understanding quick edit
You can access Quick Edit by selecting the “Quick Edit” button on the ribbon when viewing a list or library. This will open an editable grid in which you can make changes directly.
How to use quick editing for efficient data entry
Quick Edit is ideal for mass updates and data entry. For example, if you need to update the status of multiple tasks in a project list, you can do this quickly with Quick Edit without having to open each item individually.
Scenarios where Quick Edit is most useful
Quick Edit is particularly useful in scenarios where you need to make changes to large data sets, for example when updating inventory lists, task statuses or contact information.
Feature 4: SharePoint views
SharePoint views allow you to customize the display of information in your lists and libraries. This can be incredibly useful for tailoring the user experience to specific needs.
Customize SharePoint views
To create a custom view, go to the settings of the list or library and select “Create view” You can then select the columns to display, set sorting and filtering options and define the layout.
Create and manage different views
You can create several views for different purposes. For example, you can create a view that shows all documents changed in the last week or a view that only shows items that are assigned to a specific team.
Use cases for different SharePoint views
Custom views are invaluable for project management, task tracking and document management. They help you focus on relevant information and improve overall efficiency.
Feature 5: SharePoint Designer Workflows
SharePoint Designer workflows allow you to automate complex business processes without writing code. This can significantly increase productivity and ensure consistency.
Introduction to SharePoint Designer Workflows
SharePoint Designer is a tool that allows you to create workflows to automate tasks such as approvals, notifications and data updates.
Create custom workflows
To create a custom workflow, open SharePoint Designer, connect to your site and select the “Workflows” option in the navigation pane. You can then define the steps and conditions for your workflow.
Increase productivity with automated workflows
Automated workflows can take over repetitive tasks, freeing up more time for more strategic activities. They also reduce the risk of human error and ensure that processes are followed consistently.
Also Read: SharePoint Easy Guide for Beginners
Integration of SharePoint with Microsoft Teams
Integration with Microsoft Teams is a key enabler for collaboration and communication.
Advantages of the integration
By integrating SharePoint with Teams, you can access your documents, collaborate with colleagues and manage projects – all in one place. This simplifies communication and increases productivity.
How to integrate SharePoint with Teams
To integrate, go to your Teams channel, select the “+” icon to add a new tab and select SharePoint. You can then create a link to your document libraries and lists.
Improve collaboration and communication
The integration allows seamless collaboration, allowing team members to work together in real time, share updates and stay connected regardless of their location.
Using PowerApps with SharePoint
With PowerApps, you can create custom applications that interact with your SharePoint data to optimize your business processes.
Introduction to PowerApps
PowerApps is a suite of applications, services and connectors that allow you to create customized applications for your business needs.
Create custom applications
PowerApps allows you to create applications without the need for extensive programming knowledge. Simply drag and drop elements, connect to your SharePoint data and customize as needed.
Streamline business processes with PowerApps
Custom apps can automate data entry, approvals and other processes, reducing manual effort and improving accuracy.
Using the SharePoint mobile app
The SharePoint mobile app keeps you connected and productive on the go.
Functions of the mobile app
The mobile app gives you access to your sites, documents and messages so you can stay informed and collaborate with your team from anywhere.
How to use the mobile app for remote working
Download the SharePoint app from your device’s app store, sign in with your account, and you’re ready to access your SharePoint environment.
Stay connected and productive on the go
With the mobile app, you can review documents, participate in discussions and keep up to date with important developments so you don’t miss a thing.
SharePoint search optimization
SharePoint’s search function is powerful, but there are ways to improve it further.
Improving search accuracy
Make sure your content is well organized and tagged with relevant metadata to improve search results. Use the search settings to configure refinements and filters.
Using the advanced search functions
The advanced search allows you to perform more specific queries, such as searching within specific document types or date ranges.
Improved efficiency in information retrieval
Optimized search settings and well-organized content ensure that users can find the information they need quickly, increasing overall productivity.
SharePoint security and compliance
Security and compliance are critical in any organization, and SharePoint provides robust features to support these requirements.
Understanding SharePoint’s security features
SharePoint offers various security measures, including permissions, encryption and compliance settings, to protect your data.
Implementing compliance measures
Leverage SharePoint’s compliance features, such as retention policies and audits, to ensure your organization meets regulatory requirements.
Best practices for maintaining security
Regularly review and update your security settings, train users and implement multi-factor authentication to increase security.
Also Read: What makes SharePoint On-Premises different from SharePoint Online?
Integration of SharePoint with Power BI
With Power BI integration, you can create dynamic reports and dashboards that provide valuable insights into your data.
Advantages of the Power BI integration
By integrating Power BI with SharePoint, you can visualize your data in interactive reports and dashboards, making it easier to analyze and share insights.
Set up data connections
To set up data connections, use the Power BI desktop application to connect to your SharePoint data, create your reports and then publish them to your Power BI service.
Visualize data for better decision making
Power BI’s visualization tools help you make informed decisions by presenting complex data in an easy-to-understand format.
Using SharePoint for project management
SharePoint’s project management features help you keep track of tasks, deadlines and deliverables.
Project management functions
SharePoint offers tools for tracking tasks, managing documents and collaboration, making it a powerful platform for managing projects.
Set up project sites
Create dedicated project sites to centralize all project-related information, documents and communications.
Track progress and results
Use SharePoint’s task lists, calendars and reporting features to monitor progress and ensure projects stay on track.
Improve user adoption
To fully utilize SharePoint, you need to ensure that users are comfortable and engaged with the platform.
Strategies to increase user adoption
Provide training, create user guides and offer support to help users get the most out of SharePoint. Encourage feedback and continuously improve the user experience.
Training and support
Provide regular training and create a support system to help users with any issues they encounter.
Create an engaging user experience
Make your SharePoint sites user-friendly and visually appealing. Use features like news feeds, discussion forums and social network integration to keep users engaged.
Conclusion
SharePoint is a versatile platform with numerous hidden features that can significantly increase your productivity and efficiency. By exploring and utilizing these features, you can unlock the full potential of SharePoint and streamline your workflows.
FAQs
What is the Version History feature in SharePoint?
The version history allows you to track changes to documents, view previous versions and restore older versions if required.
How does metadata navigation improve document management?
Metadata navigation allows you to organize and filter documents according to specific criteria, making it easier to find and manage information.
Can I use SharePoint Designer workflows to automate tasks?
Yes, SharePoint Designer workflows can automate various tasks such as approvals, notifications and data updates to increase productivity.
How does the integration of SharePoint with Microsoft Teams improve collaboration?
The integration allows seamless access to documents and collaboration tools in Teams, improving communication and teamwork.
Is the SharePoint mobile app useful for working on the go?
Absolutely. The mobile app provides access to your SharePoint environment so you can stay connected and productive from anywhere.
