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When businesses think about Microsoft 365, they often focus on Outlook, Teams, and Excel—but SharePoint is one of the most powerful and underutilised tools in the suite. If your business hasn’t fully explored what SharePoint can do, it’s time for a second look.

From secure document storage and collaboration to automated workflows and seamless integration with Microsoft 365, SharePoint can transform how your business manages data, communication, and productivity.

But what exactly is SharePoint, and why should your business consider making it a core part of its operations? Let’s dive in.

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📌 What is SharePoint?

At its core, SharePoint is a cloud-based platform for document management, collaboration, and business automation. It allows teams to store, organise, share, and access information securely from anywhere—whether working in the office or remotely.

Originally launched as an intranet solution, SharePoint has evolved into a business-critical platform used by companies of all sizes for:

✅ Secure file storage – Keep documents organised and accessible.
✅ Collaboration – Edit and share files in real time with version control.
✅ Process automation – Streamline business tasks and approvals.
✅ Integration – Connects seamlessly with Microsoft 365 apps like Teams, OneDrive, and Power Automate.
✅ Security and Compliance – Protect sensitive data with advanced security features.

Many businesses already have SharePoint included in their Microsoft 365 subscription but aren’t using it to its full potential. That’s a missed opportunity to improve efficiency and workflow.

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💡 Why Businesses Should Take a Second Look at SharePoint

1️⃣ Centralised Document Management
One of SharePoint’s biggest strengths is its ability to store and manage documents securely in one place.

• No more lost files on desktops or emails.
• Version history keeps track of edits.
• Access files anytime, anywhere via the cloud.
• Advanced permissions let you control who can view, edit, or share content.

Businesses that still rely on traditional file servers or cluttered shared drives could dramatically improve efficiency by moving to SharePoint.

2️⃣ Collaboration Like Never Before
Forget email attachments and multiple file versions—SharePoint makes collaboration seamless.

• Teams can edit documents together in real time, whether they’re in the office or working remotely.
• SharePoint integrates with Teams, so discussions, files, and meetings are all connected.
• Customised team sites keep projects organised, with relevant documents and information stored in one place.

For businesses that struggle with communication or have remote teams, SharePoint bridges the gap.

3️⃣ Business Process Automation
Manual processes slow businesses down. SharePoint, combined with Power Automate, allows you to automate repetitive tasks, such as:

⚙️ Automated approval workflows – Speed up document approvals.
📨 Form submissions – Collect and process data effortlessly.
🔄 Notifications & alerts – Keep teams informed automatically.
✅ Project tracking – Ensure deadlines are met with workflow automation.

For businesses still relying on manual emails or paper-based processes, SharePoint can save hours of time and reduce errors.

4️⃣ Cost-Effective & Already Included in Microsoft 365
Many businesses already have access to SharePoint as part of their Microsoft 365 subscription, meaning there’s no extra cost to start using it.

💰 Plans that include SharePoint:
✔ Microsoft 365 Business Standard
✔ Microsoft 365 Business Premium
✔ Office 365 E3 / E5
✔ Microsoft 365 Enterprise plans

Instead of investing in third-party document management or project management tools, businesses can leverage SharePoint’s full potential—without additional software costs.

5️⃣ Security, Compliance & Data Protection
With cyber threats on the rise, businesses need a secure way to manage and protect their data. SharePoint includes:

🔒 Enterprise-grade security – Encryption, secure access, and multi-factor authentication.
📜 Compliance features – GDPR, ISO, and industry-specific regulatory compliance tools.
🚀 Data backup & recovery – Built-in redundancy to prevent data loss.

If your business stores sensitive client information, SharePoint ensures it’s protected and compliant.

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📦 Migrating to SharePoint: How Difficult Is It?

Many businesses hesitate to switch to SharePoint because they fear a complicated migration. But in reality, moving to SharePoint is easier than ever with the right approach.

🔹 What’s involved in a SharePoint migration?
✅ Assessing current storage – Understanding where files are currently stored (servers, OneDrive, Google Drive, etc.).
✅ Planning folder structure – Designing an efficient, user-friendly layout.
✅ Moving data – Using Microsoft’s migration tools or third-party solutions.
✅ Setting permissions – Defining access levels for different users and departments.
✅ Training staff – Ensuring everyone knows how to use SharePoint effectively.

🔹 How long does migration take?

• Small businesses – A few days to a week.
• Larger organisations – A few weeks, depending on the amount of data and complexity.

With proper planning and support, businesses can transition to SharePoint with minimal disruption.

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🚀 Is SharePoint Right for Your Business?

If your company is facing any of these common IT challenges, SharePoint could be the solution you need:

✔ Struggling with file organisation and finding documents?
✔ Need better collaboration and remote work capabilities?
✔ Want to automate repetitive business processes?
✔ Looking for secure, compliant data storage?
✔ Already paying for Microsoft 365 but not using SharePoint?

For businesses already invested in Microsoft 365, SharePoint is an obvious choice. It’s powerful, secure, cost-effective, and designed to work with the tools you’re already using.

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📢 How System Plus Can Help

At System Plus, we’ve helped businesses across East Yorkshire and beyond migrate to SharePoint, optimise their setup, and unlock its full potential.

✔ SharePoint Migration – Moving your data securely with minimal disruption.
✔ Custom Configuration – Designing SharePoint sites tailored to your business needs.
✔ Automation & Workflow Setup – Helping you streamline repetitive tasks.
✔ Ongoing Support & Training – Ensuring your team gets the most out of SharePoint.

If you’re considering making the move or want to optimise your existing SharePoint setup, we’re here to guide you.

📩 Get in touch today to see how SharePoint can transform your business operations.