What Are Sharepoint Add Ins?

SharePoint Add-ins are a powerful tool for businesses to increase their productivity. They are a way to extend the functionality of SharePoint, allowing businesses to customize the platform according to their unique needs. With SharePoint Add-ins, businesses can access data from multiple sources, integrate with third-party applications, and create custom workflows. In this article, we’ll explore what SharePoint Add-ins are, the different types of Add-ins available, and the benefits they offer businesses.

What Are SharePoint Add-ins?

SharePoint Add-ins are small pieces of software that extend the functionality of Microsoft SharePoint. They can be used to provide users with the ability to access and utilize data and applications that would otherwise be unavailable. Add-ins are designed to be easy to install, configure and use and are available for both on-premises and cloud-based SharePoint deployments.

SharePoint Add-ins are available in a variety of forms, from web parts to customizations to third-party applications. They can be used to extend the functionality of SharePoint in a number of ways, including:

• Adding new features, such as web parts, customizations and applications.
• Integrating with external applications and services.
• Providing data connectivity and analysis.
• Improving user experience and user productivity.
• Expanding SharePoint’s capabilities in areas such as search, analytics, and content management.

Types of SharePoint Add-ins

SharePoint Add-ins come in a variety of forms, including web parts, customizations, and third-party applications.

Web Parts

Web Parts are small pieces of software that can be added to a SharePoint page. Web Parts allow users to customize and extend the functionality of SharePoint by adding new features and capabilities. Web Parts can be used to create custom content, display data, and integrate with external applications and services.

Customizations

Customizations are custom code written for SharePoint, such as HTML, JavaScript, or CSS. Customizations can be used to change the look and feel of a SharePoint site or to add functionality such as custom search or navigation.

Third-Party Applications

Third-party applications are software applications created and released by third-party vendors. These applications are designed to extend the functionality of SharePoint and can be used to add features such as analytics, search, content management, and more.

Benefits of SharePoint Add-ins

SharePoint Add-ins provide users with the ability to extend the functionality of SharePoint in a number of ways. By adding new features, integrating with external applications and services, and providing data connectivity and analysis, SharePoint Add-ins can help improve user experience and user productivity.

Improved User Experience

SharePoint Add-ins can help improve the user experience by providing users with the ability to access and utilize data and applications that would otherwise be unavailable. Add-ins can also be used to customize the look and feel of a SharePoint site, making it easier and more enjoyable to use.

Integration with External Applications and Services

SharePoint Add-ins can be used to integrate with external applications and services, such as Salesforce or Office 365. This can provide users with access to data and applications that would otherwise be unavailable.

Data Connectivity and Analysis

SharePoint Add-ins can be used to connect to external data sources and analyze the data. This can provide users with the ability to gain insights from the data and make informed decisions.

Increased Productivity

SharePoint Add-ins can help increase user productivity by providing users with the ability to access and utilize data and applications that would otherwise be unavailable. This can help users save time and get more done in a shorter amount of time.

Expanded Capabilities

SharePoint Add-ins can be used to extend SharePoint’s capabilities in areas such as search, analytics, and content management. This can help make SharePoint more powerful and can help users get more out of the platform.

How to Install SharePoint Add-ins

SharePoint Add-ins can be easily installed on both on-premises and cloud-based SharePoint deployments.

On-Premises Deployments

On-premises deployments of SharePoint Add-ins can be installed manually or through the use of an automated deployment tool.

Manual Installation

Manual installation of SharePoint Add-ins requires users to download the add-in package and upload it to the SharePoint Server. Once the add-in is uploaded, it can be activated and configured.

Automated Deployment

Automated deployment of SharePoint Add-ins can be used to quickly and easily install and configure add-ins on a SharePoint Server. Automated deployment tools can be used to install, activate, and configure multiple add-ins in a single operation.

Cloud-Based Deployments

Cloud-based deployments of SharePoint Add-ins can be installed through the use of the Microsoft AppSource or the Office Store.

Microsoft AppSource

The Microsoft AppSource is a marketplace for cloud-based applications and services. Users can browse the AppSource to find and install SharePoint Add-ins.

Office Store

The Office Store is a marketplace for Office add-ins and services. Users can browse the Office Store to find and install SharePoint Add-ins.

Related Faq

What are SharePoint Add-Ins?

SharePoint Add-Ins are small applications that can be used to extend the functionality of a SharePoint site. They provide a way to quickly and easily add features and functionality to a SharePoint site without having to write custom code or install third-party applications. SharePoint Add-Ins are hosted either in the cloud or on-premises, and can be installed and configured by users with the appropriate permissions.

What types of SharePoint Add-Ins are available?

There are a variety of SharePoint Add-Ins available, ranging from basic customizations to more complex integrations with external applications. Some of the most common types of SharePoint Add-Ins include: custom themes and branding, custom content types, custom lists and libraries, and custom workflows. Additionally, there are a number of third-party applications that can be integrated with SharePoint, such as project management tools, CRM systems, and analytics packages.

How do I install a SharePoint Add-In?

Installing a SharePoint Add-In is a relatively straightforward process. First, you will need to locate the Add-In in the SharePoint App Catalog. Once you have found it, you can click on the Install button to add it to your SharePoint site. Once the Add-In has been installed, you will then need to configure it to suit your needs. This typically involves setting up the permissions and configuring any settings that are specific to the Add-In.

What are the benefits of using SharePoint Add-Ins?

One of the biggest benefits of using SharePoint Add-Ins is that they can help you quickly and easily extend the functionality of your SharePoint site. This can save you time and money in the long run, since you don’t have to write custom code or purchase additional software. Additionally, SharePoint Add-Ins are typically easy to install and configure, meaning that non-technical users can get up and running quickly.

Are there any drawbacks to using SharePoint Add-Ins?

Although SharePoint Add-Ins can be a great way to quickly and easily add functionality to your SharePoint site, they do have some drawbacks. For example, they can be more expensive than custom code solutions, and they may not offer the level of control and flexibility that you get with custom code. Additionally, some SharePoint Add-Ins can be difficult to set up and configure, so it’s important to make sure that you have the right resources available to ensure a successful implementation.

SharePoint add-ins are an invaluable tool for businesses looking to extend the capabilities of their SharePoint platform. With the ability to customize and enhance the user experience, they provide users with efficient and powerful tools to help streamline their workflows. By integrating add-ins into their SharePoint environment, businesses are able to keep up with the ever-evolving needs of their organization, while giving their users a more efficient way to collaborate and stay connected.