If you build it, will they come?

Insight & Opinion

A SharePoint intranet can be a powerful tool for collaboration, communication, and knowledge sharing within an organisation. However, simply launching a new intranet does not guarantee that employees will use it. Without thoughtful design and user-centric optimisation, your intranet may become just another digital ghost town. The homepage, in particular, plays a crucial role in driving adoption and engagement. So, how can you ensure that if you build it, they will come?

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The Role of the Homepage in User Adoption

The homepage is the gateway to your SharePoint intranet—it’s the first thing users see when they log in and sets the tone for their entire experience. If the homepage is cluttered, confusing, or lacks relevant content, users are less likely to return. On the other hand, a well-designed, intuitive homepage can encourage regular use and create a habit of engagement.

Best Practices for an Optimised SharePoint Intranet Homepage

  1. Prioritise User-Centric Design

The homepage should be designed with the user in mind. Conduct surveys or usability testing to understand employees’ needs, preferences, and pain points. Ensure the layout is clean, visually appealing, and easy to navigate.

  1. Keep It Simple and Intuitive

Avoid overwhelming users with too much information. Use clear headings, logical navigation, and a consistent structure. A minimalistic approach helps users find what they need quickly and reduces cognitive overload.

  1. Make Important Information Instantly Accessible

Key content such as company news, announcements, upcoming events, and critical links should be prominently displayed. Consider using web parts like News, Quick Links, and Events to surface relevant updates.

  1. Personalise the Experience

Leverage SharePoint’s targeting capabilities to deliver personalised content based on user roles, departments, or locations. This ensures employees see information that is relevant to their specific work context.

  1. Enhance Search Functionality

A robust search function is essential for user engagement. Ensure that the homepage includes an easy-to-use search bar that delivers accurate and relevant results. Use metadata, tagging, and refiners to improve search performance.

  1. Integrate Collaboration Tools

Encourage employee interaction by embedding Microsoft 365 tools like Yammer (Viva Engage), Teams, and SharePoint Discussion Boards. This helps foster a sense of community and keeps users coming back for updates and discussions.

  1. Ensure Mobile Responsiveness

With remote and hybrid work becoming the norm, employees need access to the intranet from any device. A mobile-friendly design ensures that users can engage with content on the go.

  1. Encourage Two-Way Communication

Instead of a one-way flow of information, make the homepage interactive. Enable comment sections on news posts, conduct polls, and use feedback forms to give employees a voice.

  1. Monitor Usage and Continuously Improve

Use SharePoint’s analytics tools to track engagement metrics such as page views, search queries, and click-through rates. Regularly review the data to identify areas for improvement and adapt the homepage accordingly.

In Summary

A SharePoint intranet is only as successful as its adoption rate. Optimising the homepage is key to ensuring employees see it as a valuable resource rather than an obstacle. By focusing on user-centric design, personalisation, accessibility, and continuous improvement, you can transform your SharePoint homepage into a dynamic, engaging, and indispensable part of your organisation’s digital workplace.

If you build it the right way, they will come—and they’ll keep coming back.

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