Best SharePoint Versions: Choosing On-Premise or Online

Explore the key distinctions between SharePoint versions including On-Premise and Online to determine which best suits your organizational needs.
Explore the key distinctions between SharePoint versions including On-Premise and Online to determine which best suits your organizational needs.

Understanding SharePoint Versions: On-Premise vs Online

SharePoint has been a leading collaboration and document management platform for years, offering two distinct deployment options: On-Premise and Online. The On-Premise version is hosted on a company’s own servers, giving organizations full control over their SharePoint environment. SharePoint Online, on the other hand, is hosted on Microsoft’s servers, as part of the Office 365 suite, providing a cloud-based service without the need for physical infrastructure maintenance.

 

Choosing between SharePoint versions of On-Premise and Online depends on various factors such as the company’s size, IT infrastructure, budget, and specific business requirements. Understanding the differences in features, management, and customization capabilities is essential for making an informed decision.

Key Benefits of SharePoint On-Premise

The latest SharePoint versions of On-Premise are known for their robustness and extensive customization options. They allows businesses to maintain complete control over their data and manage it according to their compliance and governance policies. On-premise solutions offer a higher level of customization through third-party solutions like the ones KWIZ offers, custom-developed applications, and full access to server resources. KWIZ offers an extensive portfolio of innovative solutions designed to enhance and streamline various business processes. They were created to optimize efficiency, improve productivity, and drive overall operational excellence. 

Additionally, organizations with complex integrations or specific performance requirements may find that an On-Premise environment provides the necessary control and capability to meet their needs.

 

Another significant advantage is that SharePoint On-Premise enables organizations to keep sensitive data entirely within their own controlled environment, which is a critical consideration for industries with stringent data security regulations. 

Advantages of Choosing SharePoint Online

Newer SharePoint versions Online offer a flexible, scalable solution that reduces the need for in-house IT infrastructure and maintenance. Being a cloud-based service, it provides the benefits of remote access, automatic updates, and seamless integration with other Office 365 applications. This version of SharePoint is ideal for organizations looking for a cost-effective solution that can easily adapt to changing business needs.

Additionally, latest SharePoint versions that run Online come with the added advantage of Microsoft’s enterprise-level security features and regular compliance updates, making it a suitable option for businesses that want to minimize their IT overhead while still benefiting from a secure and compliant platform.

On top of providing on-prem applications, KWIZ is also your one-stop shop for everything related to SharePoint Online. They offer a comprehensive suite of products and services, tailored to meet your specific needs, as well as expert migration services to ensure a smooth transitions. The KWIZ team is dedicated to helping optimize your SharePoint experience, ensuring that you achieve greater efficiency, collaboration, and productivity.

Considerations for Security and Compliance in SharePoint

Security and compliance are paramount when choosing a SharePoint version. SharePoint On-Premise might be preferred by organizations that require full control over their security measures and have the capacity to manage them effectively. It allows for the enforcement of specific security policies and the ability to keep all data in-house.

On the other hand, SharePoint Online benefits from Microsoft’s robust security protocols, including regular security updates and compliance with global standards. However, organizations have less control over where their data is stored and must rely on Microsoft’s security measures to protect their information.

 

To mitigate the risks associated with SharePoint Online, many companies rely on ProvisionPoint—a self-service governance and compliance platform. ProvisionPoint equips administrators with a range of tools, including detailed reports, intuitive dashboards, streamlined approval processes, and customizable templates. This comprehensive solution empowers administrators to effectively manage and oversee their SharePoint Online environment, ensuring enhanced control and compliance across the tenant.

How to Choose the Right SharePoint Version for Your Business

Choosing the right SharePoint version for your business involves assessing your organization’s unique needs and capabilities. Consider factors such as the level of control required, budget constraints, IT infrastructure, staff expertise, and long-term business goals. An On-Premise solution may be suitable for businesses with specific regulatory requirements, while SharePoint Online could be a better fit for organizations seeking scalability and reduced IT responsibility.

 

Ultimately, the decision should align with your business strategy, ensuring that whichever SharePoint versions you choose, it will support and enhance your organization’s operations. Consulting with IT professionals and conducting a thorough needs analysis can also provide valuable insights into the best SharePoint solution for your business.