In SharePoint, templates are pre-designed structures used to create sites, lists, libraries, pages, and more, allowing users to standardize content creation and improve efficiency. They can be utilized in various ways:

Types of Templates

• Site Templates: Pre-configured settings, web parts, and content types tailored for specific needs (e.g., team site, communications site).

• List Templates: Used to create custom lists with predefined columns, views, and settings, streamlining the creation of similar data sets.

• Document Library Templates: Enables the creation of libraries with specific metadata, content types, and document management settings.

• Page Templates: Pre-defined layouts for pages ensuring consistency across sites and ease of management of content.

Creating and Using Templates

To create a template in SharePoint:

1. Navigate to the site or list you want to use as a template.

2. Use the “Save as Template” option (for lists and libraries) to generate a .wsp file or site template.

3. Upload and activate the template in the SharePoint environment for reuse.

To use a template:

1. Access the “New” menu in SharePoint.

2. Select the desired template from the available options.

Advantages of Using Templates

• Consistency: Ensures uniformity in design and structure across various SharePoint assets.

• Time-saving: Reduces the time needed to create new sites or lists with similar requirements.

• Standardization: Encourages adherence to organizational standards and best practices.

• Collaboration: Facilitates collaboration across teams by providing a shared starting point.

Considerations

• Permissions: Ensure that users have the appropriate permissions to create and use templates.

• Customization: Templates can be further customized after creation to meet specific needs.

• Site Design: Utilize the modern site design capabilities, allowing for richer and more flexible templates.

By leveraging templates effectively, organizations can improve governance, compliance, and usability within their SharePoint environment.