SharePoint Communication Sites are a dynamic solution within Microsoft 365 designed to streamline information distribution and enhance engagement across organisations.
According to Microsoft, Communication Sites are for broadcasting messages, typically have a large audience, and are primarily for consumption rather than content creation. Team Sites, on the other hand, are tailored for small group collaboration.
A SharePoint Communication Site can serve various purposes. They are commonly used from intranets, but can also work for product launches, change communications or news sites. It’s an ideal platform for sharing information with large groups or the entire organisation.
Setting up a SharePoint Communication Site is straightforward. From the SharePoint start page, select ‘Create site,’ choose ‘Communication site,’ and then pick the desired layout. Fill in the site name, description, and other details, and you’re ready to go. For a more detailed guide, Microsoft provides a step-by-step walkthrough to assist users in creating and customising their sites. Or, a Microsoft partner (like us) can help design and build your Communications Site for more complex needs.
When planning a Communication Site, it’s crucial to understand the audience and their needs. Consider who the viewers are, what they’re looking for, and the outcomes you wish to achieve. Thoughtful governance and topic-specific sites contribute to a well-organised intranet, ensuring that content is relevant and accessible.
Best practices for SharePoint Communication Sites include creating clear and intuitive navigation, using sections and web parts to display content in a creative and engaging way, and ensuring the site is accessible and inclusive. Leveraging tools like mega menus can enhance user experience, making content discovery effortless. Additionally, aligning the site design with the organisation’s branding and using web parts to engage employees with dynamic content are recommended strategies.
Using SharePoint’s out-of-the-box features to create your Communications Site does have some limitations. If your organisation has more specific branding, design or feature requirements you can build custom solutions for a more bespoke experience.
