SR1 Development have a long standing relationship with the North East LEP.
Background
The North East Local Enterprise Partnership work with partners to develop a more competitive economy for the North East, Helping to create more and better jobs for everyone.
They approached SR1 Development in 2020 to assist with implementing a SharePoint Online intranet, and to start digitizing several paper based processes.
The Approach
SR1 Development and the NELEP have worked together closely over the past 4 year, building very strong working relationships to help develop a best in class intranet and collaboration platform.
The Result
Implementation of a strongly branded intranet, ensuring colleagues across the organisation have easy access to latest news, events, templates, policies and documents.
Implementation of a suite of PowerApps to replace paper-based processes for:
- Leave management
- Flextime
- Credit card request
- Travel expenses
- Gifts and hospitality record
- Employee sickness
- Purchase Order request
- Delegated decisions
- And many more…
Feedback
“We love working with SR1 Development! The service we receive from Steve and the team is exceptional. We have a fantastic working relationship which is built on trust and the knowledge we know Steve and the team will deliver an excellent product every time. Steve has a wealth of knowledge in SharePoint and Microsoft and is extremely adept at communicating it in a simple way to us ‘non-tech’ folks! He always reacts positively and with a great solution to any request we put his way. Steve and the team are always on hand to support with any query big or small and always replies promptly.
The work SR1 have carried out for LEP has been transformational for our team. We now have online systems which work seamlessly compared to paper or Word and Excel based systems we used previously. The intranet has become a central information point for the team where they can easily access information they need. Almost every member of our organisation has expressed how much the intranet has improved their way of working, in particular our managers. Our new starters have also commented on how well it is designed and it’s functionality compared with other organisations they’d worked in. We are continuing to add new sections and build forms with SR1 guiding us on what is possible.”
Rebecca Kinmond – Programme Manager
In this blog post, we will delve into the incredible potential of Power Automate and how it can revolutionise your business processes, saving you time and resources while boosting productivity and accuracy.
1. What is Power Automate?
Power Automate is a powerful workflow automation tool that’s part of the Microsoft Power Platform. It allows you to create automated workflows that connect various apps, services, and systems to work seamlessly together. With Power Automate, you can automate tasks, notifications, approvals, and much more, all without the need for extensive coding.
2. Streamline Routine Tasks:
Imagine this: No more manual data entry, no more repetitive form-filling, and no more chasing down approvals. Power Automate can automate all these mundane tasks and more. For instance, when a new lead is added to your CRM, Power Automate can automatically notify the sales team, create a follow-up task, and even send a personalised welcome email to the prospect. This not only saves time but also ensures consistency and accuracy in your processes.
3. Enhance Collaboration:
Power Automate seamlessly integrates with Office 365 applications like SharePoint, Teams, and Outlook. This means you can automate document approval workflows, schedule, and send reports, or even automate the creation of team tasks and events. Collaborative projects become smoother and more efficient when everyone is on the same page, and Power Automate helps you achieve just that.
4. Connect Your Favourite Apps:
One of the incredible strengths of Power Automate is its extensive library of connectors. You can connect your favourite apps, both Microsoft and third-party, to create integrated workflows. For example, you can automatically post social media updates, create new tasks in project management tools, or even update your CRM based on customer interactions on your website. The possibilities are virtually limitless.
5. Boost Productivity and Reduce Errors:
By automating repetitive tasks, Power Automate not only saves time but also reduces the likelihood of human errors. Your team can focus on high-value tasks, creativity, and problem-solving, while Power Automate takes care of the routine.
6. Real-time Insights and Notifications:
With Power Automate, you can set up real-time notifications for critical events. For instance, receive instant alerts when a high-priority email arrives or when an important file is modified in SharePoint. This ensures that you’re always in the know, even when you’re on the move.
7. Customised Solutions:
At SR1 Development, we understand that every business is unique. That’s why we specialise in crafting custom Power Automate solutions tailored to your specific needs. Whether it’s automating HR processes, managing customer interactions, or simplifying your project management, we can help you harness the full potential of this remarkable tool.
Conclusion:
In today’s fast-paced business world, efficiency is the key to staying ahead of the competition. Power Automate is the secret weapon that will supercharge your business processes, enhance collaboration, and free up your team’s time for strategic initiatives. It’s time to automate the routine and unleash your business’s full potential.
If you’re ready to streamline your business and take it to new heights, SR1 Development is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today, and let’s embark on this exciting journey together.
Here at SR1 Development, we work to nurture and develop existing partnerships. We’ve had the pleasure of getting to work with Karbon Homes again, this time to migrate their existing EDMS management system from SharePoint 2019 to Sharepoint Online.
Background
Karbon Homes covers the North East of England and Yorkshire, with around 32,000 homes across diverse communities, all facing different opportunities and challenges.
They are focused on delivering three strategic aims – to provide as many good quality homes as they can, to deliver excellent service to customers, and to shape strong, sustainable places for their communities.
The Approach
Karbon homes had already implemented a robust internal EDMS system to integrate their Housing Management System with SharePoint on Premise.
They approached SR1 Development to support with the rebuild and enhancement of this in Office 365 set up.
The Result
We implemented and launched several SharePoint Online sites, interconnected via a hub site, providing the information colleagues needed instant access to. Key elements included:
- Custom webpart to allow users to easily upload and tag documents.
- Azure integration to transform tagged documents to standard naming conventions.
- Automatic application of labels based on document properties to meet retention requirements.
- Central search for simple retrieval of documents.
- Integration with Housing Management system to upload and retrieve documents.
- Automatic creation of new document repositories.
Feedback
“We have a great relationship with SR1 from previous developments and we knew we could rely on them to deliver a quality and professional service to help us reach our desired outcome.
Their expertise enabled us to reach our goal in migrating our existing housing EDMS management system to SharePoint Online, seamlessly. They were so accommodating throughout and very meticulous with our requirements. We look forward to working with SR1 again in the future”.
Adam Day – Systems Engineer
We have recently worked in partnership with Dimensions UK to implement a new intranet, document management system, and digitise internal processes.
Background
Dimensions Group works not only in Newcastle Upon Tyne but across the whole of England and Wales with around 7000 staff supporting over 4000 people with learning disabilities and/or autism and their families.
They are a not-for-profit organisation (and Dimensions (UK) Limited is a Registered Provider of Social Housing), providing a range of care, support and accommodation.
The objective of the project was to create efficiency in how Business Support services are consumed by all colleagues, by exploiting existing or dormant functionality and adding additional solutions as necessary, delivering an intuitive and easily navigable solution to colleagues which would:
- Reduce current pressures on managers who act as the conduit on queries from support staff to Business Support – helping to create capacity in those roles.
- Create capacity in Business Support functions by automating responses to transactional and high-volume queries.
- Provide a better ‘employee experience’ for support staff – who can access a 24/7 service
- Deliver consistency in practice by providing access to consistent information and a central resource for policies and procedures, delivering one single destination of accuracy in colleague related information.
The Approach
SR1 Development worked closely with internal stakeholders to fully understand the challenges with the previous intranet and design a best in practice solution that met the requirements of colleagues across the organisation.
By working closely through a series of workshops we were able to understand the current challenges and show the art of the possible through prototypes.
Throughout the project there was a real alignment between SR1, and internal Dimensions colleagues, which resulted in a really strong partnership.
The Result
We implemented and launched a rich SharePoint intranet, joining a multitude of interconnected hub sites, providing the information colleagues needed instant access to. Key elements included:
- Visually engaging and consistent sites
- Clear structured navigation
- Custom Search and document tags at the forefront
- Document review processes.
- Content approval processes.
- Integrated chatbot to answer questions, and help colleagues easily find the information required
- Implementation of a series of online forms using PowerApps and PowerAutomate, to simplify internal processes.
The Feedback
“We specifically selected a small agency who were able to work closely with our teams and we received a high-level of bespoke service because of this.
We were delighted with the expertise, professionalism and focus of SR1. They led us through a complex project, keeping things simple for us at all times. They were accommodating of our changing needs. And feedback from their interactions with 20+ Dimensions content managers was uniformly excellent. I would absolutely work with them again, and unhesitatingly recommend to others.”
Duncan Bell – Head of Marketing & External Communications
Welcome to my series on how to get the best out of Microsoft Office 365.
I’m Lesley, I’m the Project Administrator here at SR1 Development. This series is about how I use Office 365 to assist me not just with planning, organisation and project management, but also how to stay motivated and inspired.
Reduce background noise
Click on the three dots next to your profile picture to go to settings.
Tip: Keyboard shortcut to open settings ctrl + comma
Personalise your experience in Teams by creating your own memes
How to add captions to Teams meetings
Add a custom background in a Teams meeting
With your camera turned on, select video effects by clicking on the three dots. Select video effects and add new, then double click on the image to select..
Keyboard Shortcuts in Teams
| ctrl + n | Start a new Chat |
| ctrl + shift + x | Expand chat box |
| shift + enter | Start a new line |
| ctrl + = | Zoom in |
| ctrl + – | Zoom out |
| ctrl + 0 | Reset zoom level |
| ctrl + 3 | Open activity |
| ctrl + 7 | Open calendar |
| ctrl + 8 | Open files |
| ctrl + 9 | Open tasks by planner to do |
| ctrl + , | Open settings |
| ctrl + shift + f | Filter messages by name |
| ctrl + shift + e | Start screen share session |
| ctrl + . | Show all shortcuts |
SharePoint has become an integral part of modern business operations, revolutionising the way organisations collaborate, manage content, and improve productivity. But for many people, the question remains: what exactly does SharePoint do? Here at SR1 development, we are all about simplifying things, so in this blog, we will delve into the functionalities and benefits of SharePoint.
Understanding SharePoint
SharePoint is a web-based collaboration and document management platform developed by Microsoft. It serves as a centralised hub for teams to work together, share information, and collaborate on projects in real-time. Originally launched in 2001, SharePoint has evolved significantly over the years to become a versatile and powerful tool for businesses of all sizes.
1. Content Management and Document Sharing
One of the primary functionalities of SharePoint is content management. Businesses generate vast amounts of documents, files, and data every day. SharePoint allows organisations to store, organise, and manage this content securely in a centralised archive. This ensures that employees have easy access to the information they need, promoting efficiency and reducing redundancy.
SharePoint facilitates seamless document sharing, enabling multiple team members to collaborate on the same document simultaneously. According to Microsoft, version control features ensure that everyone is working on the latest version, avoiding conflicts and confusion.
2. Team Collaboration and Communication
SharePoint promotes effective team collaboration by providing various tools for communication and collaboration. Team sites and project sites serve as dedicated spaces where team members can work together on specific projects, share updates, and track progress. Features like shared calendars, task lists, and announcements enhance team productivity.
Microsoft states that with SharePoint’s integrated communication tools, such as blogs, discussion boards, and chat functionality, teams can stay connected and informed, fostering a culture of open communication.
3. Business Process Automation
SharePoint can be integrated with PowerAutomate to offer powerful workflow automation capabilities, streamlining repetitive tasks and business processes. Users can create custom workflows using a user-friendly interface, eliminating the need for manual intervention in routine operations. This automation not only saves time but also minimises the risk of errors, enhancing overall efficiency.
4. Intranet and Portals
SharePoint serves as an organisation’s intranet, offering a centralised platform for internal communication, announcements, news, and policy dissemination. The intranet provides a unified and personalised experience for employees, boosting engagement and collaboration within the organisation.
SharePoint portals extend this concept by enabling businesses to create external-facing websites to engage with customers, partners, and suppliers. These portals can be customised to align with the organisation’s branding and offer a seamless user experience.
5. Security and Data Protection
One of the critical aspects of SharePoint that cannot be overlooked is its robust security features. As a platform handling vast amounts of sensitive business data, security is paramount. SharePoint provides various security controls and access permissions to ensure that only authorised individuals can access specific documents and information.
Organisations can implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) and encryption to add an extra layer of protection against unauthorised access. Additionally, SharePoint’s audit and compliance features allow businesses to track and monitor user activities, ensuring accountability and meeting regulatory requirements. With data breaches becoming a growing concern in the digital age, SharePoint’s commitment to data protection provides businesses with peace of mind knowing their information is secure.
With SharePoint’s comprehensive set of features for content management, collaboration, business process automation, and security, it is clear why it has become a cornerstone tool for modern businesses. Whether it’s streamlining internal workflows, improving team collaboration, or ensuring data security, SharePoint’s capabilities make it an invaluable asset for businesses striving for growth and success.
SharePoint Support and Consultancy
Implementing SharePoint to its full potential requires expertise and knowledge. This is where SharePoint support and SharePoint consultancy services, like ourselves, come into play. Businesses in the North East region and beyond can benefit greatly from expert assistance in the following areas:
1. Planning and Deployment
SharePoint consultants assist businesses in assessing their needs and requirements, devising a tailored SharePoint strategy, and planning its implementation. They ensure that the platform is set up correctly from the start, laying the foundation for smooth operations and maximum benefits.
2. Customisation and Integration
Every organisation has unique processes and requirements. SharePoint consultants can customise the platform to align with these specific needs, enhancing its usability and relevance. Moreover, they can integrate SharePoint with existing systems, such as CRM software or third-party applications, to create a cohesive and efficient digital ecosystem.
3. Training and User Adoption
Introducing a new platform to an organisation can be met with resistance from employees. SharePoint consultants can conduct training sessions to familiarise users with the platform’s features and functionalities, ensuring smooth user adoption and maximising ROI.
4. Maintenance and Support
After implementation, SharePoint support services are crucial for ongoing maintenance, updates, and issue resolution. Prompt support ensures that any technical glitches or challenges are addressed quickly, minimising downtime and maximising productivity.
Conclusion
SharePoint is more than just a document management system; it is a dynamic platform that empowers businesses to enhance collaboration, automate processes, and drive productivity. Leveraging SharePoint North East support and consultancy services allows organisations to unlock the platform’s full potential and optimise their business operations. Whether it’s managing content, automating workflows, or fostering team collaboration, SharePoint is a game-changer in the modern business landscape.
We are an Office 365 and SharePoint consultancy specialising in supporting businesses and organisations to transform digitally with the help of Microsoft products.
Let us help you with your business’s SharePoint needs by giving us a call at 0191 691 1358 or emailing us at info@sr1development.com.