How To Use SharePoint Web Parts

In this episode of the Pragmatic Works SharePoint series, Jonathon Silva walks through how to use web parts to customize and improve a SharePoint home site. The focus is on making navigation easier, integrating useful tools, and organizing information in a way that supports productivity for teams.

Getting Started with Web Parts

Jonathon begins with a test site that includes a Device Request List. His objective is to make this list more accessible for his team by embedding it directly on the home page. To begin:

• Click on the Edit button in the top right corner of the site.
• Hover over a section until the + icon appears to add a web part.
• Select the type of web part to insert, such as a list, document library, or form.

Adding and Customizing a List Web Part

The first demonstration involves adding the Device Request List:

1. Select the List option from the web part menu.
2. Choose the existing list, in this case the Device Request List.
3. Drag and drop the web part to reposition it on the page.

Jonathon highlights several customization features:

• Choose which view to display (e.g., All Items).
• Adjust the size (large, medium, or auto-fit).
• Enable or disable the command bar and “See All” button.
• Duplicate or delete the web part if needed.

With these options, teams can present their data in the most effective way possible, giving users quick access to lists without extra navigation.

Integrating Microsoft Forms

Beyond lists, SharePoint web parts can embed tools like Microsoft Forms. Jonathon demonstrates this by creating an IT Assistance form directly inside the site:

1. Click the + icon to add a new web part.
2. Search for and select Forms.
3. Create a new form (for example, an IT Assistance form with questions for users).
4. Choose whether to collect responses or display results.

The form becomes fully interactive within the SharePoint page. Team members can submit requests without leaving the site, making the process streamlined and user-friendly.

Organizing and Rearranging Web Parts

SharePoint offers flexible drag-and-drop functionality. Jonathon demonstrates how web parts can be repositioned to suit organizational needs:

• Move lists, quick links, and forms into new sections or columns.
• Place documents beneath news feeds or quick links beneath forms.
• Create logical groupings of information for easy navigation.

Once satisfied, simply click Republish to finalize the changes. This ensures the updated design becomes the live version accessible to all team members.

Why Use SharePoint Web Parts?

Web parts are a powerful way to extend the functionality of a SharePoint site. According to Jonathon, they allow teams to:

• Enhance navigation by embedding critical lists directly on the home page.
• Integrate Office 365 tools such as Forms, Document Libraries, and Organization Charts.
• Improve collaboration by centralizing tools and data.
• Customize site layout with drag-and-drop flexibility.

By taking advantage of web parts, organizations can build a more efficient, user-friendly intranet that keeps important information and tools in one accessible location.

Final Thoughts

Jonathon Silva’s demonstration emphasizes how easy it is to add, customize, and manage SharePoint web parts. From embedding a device request list to creating an IT assistance form, web parts empower users to design a homepage tailored to their team’s daily needs. With drag-and-drop organization and seamless integration of Office 365 tools, SharePoint becomes a more powerful hub for collaboration.

Don't forget to check out the Pragmatic Works' on-demand learning platform for more insightful content and training sessions on SharePoint and other Microsoft applications. Be sure to subscribe to the Pragmatic Works YouTube channel to stay up-to-date on the latest tips and tricks.