In large enterprises, the challenge isn’t just storing information - it’s making it findable, usable, and governed. As IM professionals, we sit at the intersection of compliance, collaboration, and digital transformation. Microsoft 365 (M365), particularly SharePoint, offers a robust platform - but without a well-structured information architecture (IA), it can quickly become a digital sprawl.
This guide outlines how to design and implement scalable M365 IA and how it directly enhances productivity for SharePoint users.
Why IM Professionals Should Lead M365 IA
Information architecture is not just an IT concern - it’s a strategic IM function. A well-governed IA:
- Reduces information silos and duplication
- Supports compliance and retention policies
- Enables efficient knowledge discovery
- Enhances user experience and adoption
As custodians of enterprise information, IM professionals are uniquely positioned to align IA with business goals and regulatory requirements.
Key Principles for Designing M365 Information Architecture
- Hub Site Design
Use SharePoint hub sites to group related Teams sites, communication sites, and Viva Engage communities. This creates a logical, scalable structure that supports re-org resilience.
- Metadata and Taxonomy
Implement consistent metadata across libraries and lists to improve searchability and compliance. Use content types and term sets to enforce structure.
- Simplified Permission Management
Standardize Azure AD groups and SharePoint permission levels to reduce complexity and security risks.
- Lifecycle Governance
Define clear rules for content creation, retention, archiving, and deletion. Automate these using Microsoft Purview and retention labels.
- User-Centric Navigation
Design navigation based on user journeys, not organizational charts. Use mega menus, global navigation and personalized content targeting.
How to Implement It: A Phased Approach
- Planning & Scope Definition
Identify business units, content types, and user personas. Define success metrics and governance models.
- Requirement Gathering
Engage stakeholders to understand current pain points and future needs.
- Design & Development
Build the IA using SharePoint hub sites, metadata schemas, and provisioning templates. Tools like PowerShell and Microsoft Syntex can accelerate this.
- Testing & Training
Conduct user acceptance testing and develop training materials. Focus on change management to drive adoption.
- Deployment & Monitoring
Roll out in waves. Use analytics (e.g., SharePoint usage reports, Power BI dashboards) to monitor adoption and adjust.
- Support & Continuous Improvement
Establish a support model and feedback loop. IA is not a one-time project - it evolves with the business.
Real-World Impact: SharePoint Modernization at Scale
An internal modernization initiative offers a compelling case study
- Millions saved annually by reducing custom SharePoint development and support
- Faster site provisioning using reusable scripts and templates
- Improved user experience with sleek, intuitive modern SharePoint sites
- Reduced technical debt by eliminating legacy customizations
This transformation can be achieved without a formal project - just a committed cross-functional team leveraging existing tools and a clear vision.
Productivity Gains for SharePoint Users
A well-implemented IA directly enhances productivity by:
- Reducing time spent searching for documents
- Minimizing duplication and rework
- Improving onboarding and knowledge transfer
- Enabling self-service site creation and management
- Supporting compliance and audit readiness
Final Thoughts
For IM professionals, M365 IA is a strategic lever—not just a technical task. It’s about enabling the business to work smarter, stay compliant, and unlock the full value of enterprise knowledge.
Whether you're starting from scratch or modernizing legacy environments, the key is to think holistically, plan iteratively, and always design with the user in mind.