Ultimate Guide to Purchasing SharePoint: Essential Tips for Success

How to Buy SharePoint refers to the process of acquiring licenses and subscriptions for Microsoft’s SharePoint platform. SharePoint is a cloud-based collaboration and document management system used by businesses and organizations to facilitate teamwork, information sharing, and project management.

SharePoint offers numerous benefits, including:

• Enhanced collaboration and communication
• Centralized document storage and management
• Streamlined project management capabilities
• Integration with other Microsoft products and services

To buy SharePoint, organizations can choose from various licensing options depending on their specific needs and budget. These options include:

• SharePoint Online: A cloud-based subscription service that provides access to SharePoint’s features and capabilities.
• SharePoint Server: An on-premises software solution that offers more customization and control.
• SharePoint Hybrid: A combination of SharePoint Online and SharePoint Server that provides flexibility and scalability.

When purchasing SharePoint, organizations should consider factors such as the number of users, required storage capacity, desired functionality, and integration needs. Microsoft provides various resources and support to help customers evaluate and choose the best SharePoint option for their organization.

1. Licensing Options

Understanding the various licensing options available for SharePoint is a critical aspect of the “how to buy SharePoint” decision-making process. These options provide organizations with the flexibility to choose the licensing model that best aligns with their specific requirements and financial constraints.

SharePoint offers two primary licensing models:

• SharePoint Online: A cloud-based subscription service that provides access to SharePoint’s features and capabilities on a monthly or annual basis.
• SharePoint Server: A perpetual license that allows organizations to install and run SharePoint on their own servers.

The choice between SharePoint Online and SharePoint Server depends on factors such as the organization’s size, IT infrastructure, and budget. SharePoint Online is a cost-effective option for smaller organizations or those with limited IT resources, as it eliminates the need for hardware and software maintenance. SharePoint Server, on the other hand, provides greater control and customization options, making it suitable for larger organizations with complex IT environments.

By carefully considering the available licensing options, organizations can optimize their SharePoint investment and ensure that they have the right licensing model to meet their current and future needs.

2. Deployment Model

Understanding the deployment model options for SharePoint is a key aspect of the “how to buy SharePoint” decision-making process. The deployment model refers to the way in which SharePoint is deployed and managed within an organization. SharePoint offers two primary deployment models:

• Cloud-based (SharePoint Online): SharePoint Online is a cloud-based subscription service that is hosted and managed by Microsoft. With SharePoint Online, organizations can access SharePoint’s features and capabilities over the internet without the need for on-premises infrastructure.
• On-premises (SharePoint Server): SharePoint Server is a perpetual license that allows organizations to install and run SharePoint on their own servers. With SharePoint Server, organizations have greater control over the deployment and management of SharePoint, but they are also responsible for maintaining the underlying infrastructure.

The choice between SharePoint Online and SharePoint Server depends on a number of factors, including the organization’s size, IT infrastructure, and budget. SharePoint Online is a cost-effective option for smaller organizations or those with limited IT resources, as it eliminates the need for hardware and software maintenance. SharePoint Server, on the other hand, provides greater control and customization options, making it suitable for larger organizations with complex IT environments.

By carefully considering the deployment model options, organizations can optimize their SharePoint investment and ensure that they have the right deployment model to meet their current and future needs.

3. Functionality

When considering how to buy SharePoint, it is crucial to identify the specific features and capabilities that your organization requires. SharePoint offers a wide range of functionality, including:

• Collaboration and Communication: SharePoint provides tools for document sharing, co-authoring, and real-time communication, facilitating effective teamwork and information exchange.
• Document Management: SharePoint serves as a central repository for storing, organizing, and managing documents, ensuring easy access and retrieval of information.
• Project Management: SharePoint offers features for project planning, task tracking, and collaboration, enabling efficient project execution and monitoring.
• Business Intelligence: SharePoint provides capabilities for data analysis and reporting, allowing organizations to gain insights from their data and make informed decisions.

By carefully considering the functionality required for your organization, you can optimize your SharePoint investment and ensure that you have the right features and capabilities to meet your current and future business needs.

4. Integration

When considering how to buy SharePoint, it is crucial to evaluate the need for integration with other Microsoft products and services. SharePoint offers seamless integration with a wide range of Microsoft applications, including:

• Microsoft Teams: SharePoint can be integrated with Microsoft Teams to provide a unified platform for collaboration, communication, and document management.
• Microsoft Office 365: SharePoint can be integrated with Microsoft Office 365 applications, such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, enabling users to easily access and edit documents stored in SharePoint.
• Microsoft Dynamics 365: SharePoint can be integrated with Microsoft Dynamics 365 applications, such as Dynamics 365 Sales and Dynamics 365 Customer Service, providing a central repository for customer-related data and documents.
• Microsoft Azure: SharePoint can be integrated with Microsoft Azure services, such as Azure Storage and Azure Active Directory, providing scalability, security, and identity management capabilities.

By carefully considering the need for integration with other Microsoft products and services, you can optimize your SharePoint investment and ensure that you have the right level of integration to meet your current and future business needs.

5. Cost

Understanding the cost implications is a crucial aspect of “how to buy SharePoint” as it directly affects the organization’s budget and long-term investment. Evaluating the licensing costs, deployment expenses, and ongoing maintenance fees helps organizations make informed decisions and optimize their SharePoint investment.

• Licensing Costs: SharePoint offers various licensing options, each with its associated costs. Organizations need to carefully consider the number of users, features required, and deployment model to determine the appropriate licensing plan and budget accordingly.
• Deployment Expenses: The choice between cloud-based (SharePoint Online) and on-premises (SharePoint Server) deployment models impacts the deployment expenses. SharePoint Online eliminates the need for hardware and IT infrastructure, resulting in lower upfront costs. Conversely, SharePoint Server requires organizations to invest in servers, storage, and IT resources, leading to higher deployment expenses.
• Ongoing Maintenance Fees: SharePoint requires ongoing maintenance to ensure its optimal performance and security. These fees may include software updates, security patches, and technical support. Organizations need to factor in these ongoing expenses when budgeting for SharePoint.

By evaluating these cost components, organizations can determine the total cost of ownership for SharePoint and make informed decisions based on their financial constraints and long-term business objectives.

Frequently Asked Questions on How to Buy SharePoint

This section addresses common questions and concerns individuals may have regarding the purchase of SharePoint, providing concise and informative answers.

Question 1: What are the different licensing options available for SharePoint?

Answer: SharePoint offers flexible licensing options to cater to diverse needs and budgets. Organizations can choose between SharePoint Online, a cloud-based subscription service, or SharePoint Server, a perpetual license for on-premises deployment.

Question 2: What factors should be considered when choosing between SharePoint Online and SharePoint Server?

Answer: The choice between SharePoint Online and SharePoint Server depends on factors such as the organization’s size, IT infrastructure, and budget. SharePoint Online is cost-effective for smaller organizations and those with limited IT resources, while SharePoint Server provides greater control and customization for larger organizations.

Question 3: What are the key features and capabilities of SharePoint?

Answer: SharePoint offers a wide range of features, including collaboration tools, document management, project management, and business intelligence capabilities. It facilitates seamless teamwork, information sharing, and data analysis within organizations.

Question 4: Can SharePoint be integrated with other Microsoft products and services?

Answer: Yes, SharePoint seamlessly integrates with Microsoft Teams, Office 365, Dynamics 365, and Azure services. This integration enhances collaboration, productivity, and data management across various Microsoft applications.

Question 5: What are the cost implications of purchasing SharePoint?

Answer: The cost of SharePoint varies depending on the licensing option, deployment model, and the number of users. Organizations should carefully evaluate licensing costs, deployment expenses, and ongoing maintenance fees to determine the total cost of ownership.

Question 6: What are the benefits of using SharePoint?

Answer: SharePoint offers numerous benefits, including enhanced collaboration, centralized document management, streamlined project management, and integration with other Microsoft products. It helps organizations improve productivity, efficiency, and information sharing.

By addressing these common questions, this FAQ section provides valuable insights and guidance to individuals seeking to purchase and implement SharePoint within their organizations.

For further information and assistance, organizations are encouraged to explore Microsoft’s official SharePoint resources and consult with Microsoft partners or certified professionals.

Tips on How to Buy SharePoint

Understanding the intricacies of SharePoint purchasing is crucial for organizations seeking to optimize their investment. Here are some valuable tips to consider:

Tip 1: Evaluate Your Needs

Thoroughly assess your organization’s collaboration, document management, and project management requirements. This will help you determine the specific SharePoint features and capabilities that align with your business objectives.

Tip 2: Choose the Right Deployment Model

Consider whether cloud-based (SharePoint Online) or on-premises (SharePoint Server) deployment best suits your infrastructure and IT strategy. Evaluate factors such as cost, control, and scalability.

Tip 3: Select the Appropriate Licensing Option

Explore the various licensing options available, including per-user licenses, volume licensing, and subscription plans. Choose the option that aligns with your budget and the number of users who will require access to SharePoint.

Tip 4: Consider Integration Needs

Assess the need for integration with other Microsoft products and services, such as Microsoft Teams, Office 365, and Dynamics 365. Determine how SharePoint can enhance your existing IT ecosystem and improve collaboration across applications.

Tip 5: Factor in the Total Cost of Ownership

Evaluate not only the initial licensing costs but also the ongoing expenses associated with SharePoint, including deployment, maintenance, and support. Ensure that your budget aligns with the total cost of ownership.

Tip 6: Seek Professional Guidance

Consider consulting with Microsoft partners or certified professionals who specialize in SharePoint implementation. Their expertise can help you navigate the purchasing process and ensure a successful deployment.

Summary

By following these tips, organizations can make informed decisions when purchasing SharePoint. Careful planning and consideration will help ensure that SharePoint aligns with your business needs, optimizes collaboration, and delivers a positive return on investment.

Closing Remarks on SharePoint Acquisition

In the realm of digital collaboration, SharePoint stands as a cornerstone, empowering organizations to enhance teamwork, streamline document management, and elevate project execution. Understanding “how to buy SharePoint” is paramount for realizing its full potential within your organization.

This comprehensive guide has explored the intricacies of SharePoint purchasing, highlighting key considerations such as licensing options, deployment models, functionality, integration needs, and cost implications. By carefully navigating these aspects, organizations can make informed decisions that align with their unique business requirements and objectives.

Investing in SharePoint is not merely a financial transaction; it is an investment in improved communication, seamless knowledge sharing, and efficient project management. Embrace the transformative power of SharePoint and unlock new horizons of collaboration and productivity within your organization.