Isn’t it true that we tend to see the world through our eyes only and not the way it really is.  Take SharePoint for example…

• If you come from a background that’s all about replacing file shares,  SharePoint is a document management system and only about metadata.
• If you come from a background of automating systems, SharePoint is only a workflow engine.
• If you come from a background in ISO, SharePoint is only about compliance.
• If you come from a background in web design, SharePoint is only about branding.
• If you come from a background in development, SharePoint can only work if it’s custom developed.
• If you come from a background in line of business data, SharePoint is only about dashboards.
• If you come from a background in training, SharePoint only works if there’s training.
• If you come from a background in governance, SharePoint only works if there’s governance.
• If you come from a background in analysis, SharePoint needs years of it to plan.
• If you come from a background in social media, you simply cannot work unless you have SharePoint 2013.
• If you come from a background of 3rd party products, SharePoint cannot work without your top selling product.

And so it goes on.  Heaven help someone else having a different view on what SharePoint can do…

It’s human nature to think that our way is the only way I guess.  But it’s really not; it’s just a different way.  We can’t pigeon-hole SharePoint into any one thing because it is such a big platform that can do all these things and much more.

In 2014, let’s look at this product with different eyes and most of all, through the eyes of customers.   Try embrace that one thing you think is really stupid about SharePoint and find a valid business use for it. Just because you don’t use My Sites for example, doesn’t mean they have no business value to someone else. Expanding your horizons to what this sensational product can do will make you a better specialist.

It’s our job to be impartial to the functionality, and understand the pros and cons of each bit so we can empower users to make informed decisions.  The decisions are still theirs ultimately and they may love something you hate.

Gentle 2014 to all.