Microsoft SharePoint is a popular platform and one of many intranet collaboration tools businesses use to manage and share information. One of the key decisions when setting up a SharePoint site is choosing between the classic and modern layout designs. In this post, we'll explore the differences between these two designs and help you decide which one is right for your business.
Classic Layout
The classic layout is the original design of SharePoint and has been around for many years. This layout is familiar to many users and provides a range of customization options. With the classic layout, users can add custom master pages and themes to create a unique look and feel for their site. However, customization can also be time-consuming and require technical expertise.
Modern Layout
The modern layout is a newer design option for SharePoint sites. It provides a more streamlined and responsive user experience, with a focus on simplicity and ease of use. The modern layout is optimized for mobile devices and provides a range of pre-built web parts, making it easier to create pages and content. However, the modern layout has limited customization options, and some features available in the classic layout are not available in the modern layout.
Choosing the Right Layout for Your Business
When deciding between the classic and modern layout, it's important to consider your business needs and goals. Here are a few key factors to consider:
- User Experience: The modern layout provides a more streamlined and responsive user experience, while the classic layout provides greater customization options. Consider which layout will provide the best experience for your users.
- Time and Resources: The classic layout requires more time and technical expertise to customize, while the modern layout provides pre-built web parts and is easier to set up. Consider how much time and resources your business has to invest in site customization.
- Administration: The differences between classic and modern layouts extend to SharePoint administration as well. Classic SharePoint administration involves managing and configuring SharePoint using Central Administration and PowerShell, while modern SharePoint administration relies more on the SharePoint Admin Center and Office 365 tools.
- Compatibility: Some features available in the classic layout may not be available in the modern layout, and vice versa. Consider which layout is more compatible with the tools and applications your business uses.
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For more SharePoint tips and tricks, check out our list of 10 things you can do with SharePoint.
Sharepoint Modern vs Classic: Which is Best for My Business?
In summary, when deciding between the classic and modern layout for your SharePoint site, it's important to consider your business needs and goals. The classic layout provides greater customization options but requires more time and technical expertise, while the modern layout is easier to set up but has limited customization options. By considering factors such as user experience, time and resources, and compatibility, you can choose the layout that is best for your business.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about SharePoint Classic vs Modern
What is Microsoft SharePoint used for?
Microsoft SharePoint is used for creating intranet sites, managing documents, automating workflows, and improving collaboration within organizations. It integrates with Microsoft 365 tools like Teams and OneDrive to centralize content and communication.
What is the difference between classic and modern SharePoint?
The classic SharePoint layout allows advanced customization with master pages and scripts, while the modern layout focuses on simplicity, mobile responsiveness, and ready-to-use web parts. Most organizations now prefer the modern layout for its ease of use and integration.
How can I tell if my SharePoint site is classic or modern?
You can tell by the interface. Modern sites have a cleaner look with simplified menus and responsive design, while classic sites use an older ribbon interface and may contain custom master pages or older web parts.
How do I change a classic SharePoint site to modern?
To change from classic to modern, enable modern pages, lists, and libraries through the SharePoint Admin Center or PowerShell. You may need to rebuild custom elements or migrate pages since not all customizations are supported in the modern experience.
How do I design a SharePoint site?
Start by defining your site’s purpose and structure. Use modern web parts like hero images, quick links, and document libraries to organize content. Customize layouts using templates or themes that align with your company’s branding and intranet goals.
How can I make my SharePoint site look like a website?
Use the modern layout with pre-designed templates, image and text web parts, and custom branding. Add navigation menus, banners, and visual sections to create a clean, web-like appearance that matches your corporate style.
How long has SharePoint been around?
Microsoft SharePoint was first released in 2001. Since then, it has evolved from an on-premises document management tool into a cloud-based collaboration platform integrated with Microsoft 365.
What is the modern SharePoint experience?
The modern SharePoint experience is a newer interface focused on responsive design, ease of use, and integration with Microsoft 365 apps. It allows users to create engaging pages quickly without coding or technical customization.
