Microsoft OneDrive vs. SharePoint: Which Platform Do I Need?

As remote work continues to play a pivotal role in our lives, it’s more important than ever for employees to have access to what they need when they need it most. Thrive helps clients manage an ever-evolving remote work setup, one that may require access to a file management platform.

Microsoft offers both OneDrive and SharePoint in its suite of services, and while these file management platforms have plenty in common, there are some key differences between the two, with distinguishing features that help drive business efficiencies.

Ensure a proper approach to file sharing, collaboration, and document management, with Thrive’s customized recommendations of how to deliver a complete file management solution.

Are OneDrive and SharePoint One and the Same?

OneDrive and SharePoint assist in file management, with any documents and data safely stored in the Cloud, giving users the ability to view documents, make changes, and see the version history of the document itself.

Made for those on the go, they both offer mobile-friendly features and syncing of files across devices. With OneDrive and SharePoint in Microsoft Office 365, files are stored in the Cloud, and it’s easy to sync either OneDrive or SharePoint files to a computer.

Think of OneDrive as the best choice for individual employees. Employees can create a document privately, work on a first draft, and manage projects yet to draw in the larger team. SharePoint allows employees to take that next step, uploading a personal draft from OneDrive so the larger team has access to the file. Administrators can set up permissions, too, giving access only to authorized team members. Now, multiple employees can comment, edit, and make changes to the document within the SharePoint system, so everyone is kept up to date with the latest progress.

Working solo? OneDrive is the way to go. Bringing a larger team in for the conversation? SharePoint access will drive productivity.

What are the Key Differences Between OneDrive and SharePoint?

With OneDrive, users have a personal account which keeps them in full control of files they create and upload. Only when a larger team needs access to the file will it be shared from OneDrive, which is a Cloud-based offering.

SharePoint is designed as a work process management platform, and while through Office 365 it offers Cloud capabilities, it can become an on-premises solution, as well. SharePoint allows administrators to create team-specific sites, going beyond the basic personalized interface of OneDrive. These team-specific sites may include easy-to-use dashboards, calendars, project updates, and task lists, ensuring seamless collaboration among all users.

Another major SharePoint advantage is the ability to customize internal team sites and outgoing communications. For example, admins can update an employee portal using the SharePoint interface and team-shared documents. Thanks to SharePoint’s CMS application, it’s easy to update a customer-facing website, too, with the ability to publish documents directly to the site.

Organizations have choices to make when it comes to OneDrive and SharePoint, but the reality is that using a combination of both will benefit businesses. To discover how to best utilize OneDrive and SharePoint and better understand Cloud and on-premises options, get in touch with the experienced team at Thrive today.