Selecting the right SharePoint development company can be a pivotal decision for your business. SharePoint is a powerful platform that can significantly enhance your organization’s productivity, collaboration, and workflow management. However, the success of your SharePoint implementation largely depends on the expertise and capabilities of the development company you choose.

What to look for when selecting a SharePoint development company.

1. Expertise and Experience

Why It Matters

Experience translates to expertise, especially in the complex realm of SharePoint development. A company with a proven track record will have encountered and overcome various challenges, providing them with the insights necessary to handle your project efficiently.

What to Look For

Years in Business: Companies that have been in the industry for a significant period are more likely to have refined their processes and amassed a wealth of experience.
Project Portfolio: Reviewing their past projects will give you an idea of their versatility and capability. Look for projects that are similar in scope and complexity to your own needs.
Certifications: Microsoft certifications, such as being a Microsoft Gold Partner, indicate a high level of proficiency and credibility. These certifications ensure that the company’s developers are well-trained and up-to-date with the latest SharePoint technologies.

2. Customized Solutions

Why It Matters

Every business is unique, and a generic approach may not effectively address your specific needs. Customized solutions ensure that the SharePoint implementation aligns perfectly with your business processes and objectives.

What to Look For

Consultation Process: A thorough consultation process demonstrates that the company takes the time to understand your unique requirements and goals. They should ask detailed questions about your business processes, challenges, and objectives.
Flexibility: The ability to adapt and customize their solutions is crucial. Look for a company that offers tailored services rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Case Studies: Review case studies that highlight how the company has customized solutions for other clients. This can give you confidence in their ability to deliver a solution tailored to your needs.

3. Technical Proficiency

Why It Matters

Technical proficiency ensures that the development company can leverage the full potential of SharePoint’s features. This includes customization, integration, migration, and support, which are essential for a robust and efficient SharePoint environment.

What to Look For

Technological Expertise: The company should be well-versed in the latest SharePoint technologies, including SharePoint Online and SharePoint Server. They should also be knowledgeable about complementary technologies such as Power Automate, Power BI, and Azure.
Integration Capabilities: Ensure they have experience integrating SharePoint with other systems and applications you use, such as CRM systems, ERP systems, and other third-party applications.
Innovation: A company that stays updated with the latest trends and innovations in SharePoint development can provide cutting-edge solutions that give you a competitive edge.

4. Support and Maintenance

Why It Matters

Post-deployment support and maintenance are crucial for the smooth operation of your SharePoint environment. Issues can arise at any time, and having a reliable support team is essential to resolve problems quickly and efficiently.

What to Look For

Service Level Agreements (SLAs): Ensure they offer clear SLAs outlining their support and maintenance commitments. This should include response times, resolution times, and the scope of support services provided.
24/7 Support: Consider companies that provide round-the-clock support, particularly if your business operates in multiple time zones or requires continuous availability.
Maintenance Plans: Look for proactive maintenance plans that include regular updates, security patches, and health checks. This helps prevent issues before they occur and ensures your SharePoint environment remains secure and up-to-date.

5. Client Testimonials and Reviews

Why It Matters

Client testimonials and reviews provide insights into the company’s reliability, customer service, and quality of work. They can give you a realistic expectation of what it’s like to work with the company and whether they deliver on their promises.

What to Look For

Client Feedback: Read testimonials and reviews on their website and third-party review platforms. Look for consistent positive feedback regarding their expertise, communication, and project delivery.
References: Ask for references from past clients. Speaking directly with previous clients can give you a deeper understanding of their experiences and the outcomes of their projects.
Case Studies and Success Stories: Detailed case studies can showcase the company’s ability to deliver successful projects. Look for examples that highlight how they addressed specific challenges and delivered value to their clients.

6. Cost-Effectiveness

Why It Matters

While cost should not be the sole deciding factor, it is important to find a company that offers a good balance between cost and quality. The cheapest option may not always be the best, and investing in quality development can save you money in the long run.

What to Look For

Transparent Pricing: Look for companies that provide clear and detailed pricing structures. This should include a breakdown of costs for different phases of the project, such as planning, development, testing, and support.
Value for Money: Assess the overall value provided, considering factors like expertise, customization, and support. Sometimes a slightly higher upfront cost can lead to greater long-term benefits and cost savings.
ROI: Consider the potential return on investment from the SharePoint solution they propose. A well-implemented SharePoint environment can significantly improve productivity and efficiency, providing a strong ROI.

7. Communication Skills

Why It Matters

Effective communication is crucial for the success of any project. A company that communicates clearly and consistently will ensure that you are kept informed throughout the project lifecycle and that your feedback is incorporated effectively.

What to Look For

Responsiveness: Assess how quickly they respond to inquiries during the initial contact phase. This can be indicative of their responsiveness throughout the project.
Clarity: Ensure that they communicate in clear and understandable terms, avoiding jargon that might confuse you.
Regular Updates: Look for a company that provides regular project updates and status reports, keeping you informed of progress and any issues that arise.

8. Project Management Capabilities

Why It Matters

Strong project management is essential for keeping the project on track, on time, and within budget. A company with solid project management practices will ensure that the project is executed smoothly and efficiently.

What to Look For

Project Management Methodologies: Look for companies that utilize established project management methodologies such as Agile or Waterfall. These methodologies help in planning, executing, and monitoring the project effectively.
Dedicated Project Manager: Ensure that there is a dedicated project manager who will be your point of contact throughout the project.
Tools and Techniques: Inquire about the tools and techniques they use for project management, such as project management software and collaboration tools.

9. Training and Knowledge Transfer

Why It Matters

For your team to effectively use and manage the SharePoint environment, proper training and knowledge transfer are essential. A good development company will ensure that your team is well-equipped to handle the new system.

What to Look For

Training Programs: Look for companies that offer comprehensive training programs tailored to different user roles within your organization.
Documentation: Ensure that they provide detailed documentation for the solutions they implement.
Ongoing Support: Check if they offer ongoing support and training resources to help your team stay up-to-date with the platform.

10. Security and Compliance

Why It Matters

Security and compliance are critical, especially if your organization handles sensitive data. A SharePoint development company should prioritize security and ensure that your implementation complies with relevant regulations.

What to Look For

Security Practices: Inquire about their security practices and how they ensure the security of your data during and after the implementation.
Compliance Expertise: Ensure that they are knowledgeable about industry-specific regulations and standards that your organization must comply with, such as GDPR, HIPAA, or SOX.
Data Protection: Look for companies that implement strong data protection measures, including encryption, access controls, and regular security audits.

Conclusion

Choosing the best SharePoint development company involves careful consideration of various factors, including expertise, customized solutions, technical proficiency, support, client feedback, cost-effectiveness, communication skills, project management capabilities, training and knowledge transfer, and security and compliance. By taking the time to evaluate potential partners against these criteria, you can ensure a successful SharePoint implementation that drives productivity and efficiency in your organization. Remember, the right development company will not only deliver a robust SharePoint solution but will also become a valuable long-term partner in your digital transformation journey.