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Microsoft SharePoint 2013 has many great new features. But why then 60% of SharePoint users purchase a third-party solution?

It’s because users just want more power and features. 

The out-of-the-box capabilities of SharePoint are often limited when it comes to mobility, forms and workflows, management, and data integration.

A third-party solution such as K2 helps overcome these limitations by helping SharePoint integrate its services across other systems.

Here’s a list of the top 10 features to overcome SharePoint limitations:

1.Reusable

When it comes to workflows and forms, the keyword is reusable. 

Without the hassle of writing, testing, deploying and upgrading code, you want to build workflows and forms that are not subject to SharePoint limitations and that can be reused across the entire SharePoint environment.

2. Mobile

Be sure your solution fully supports mobility. 

You’ll want all of your SharePoint users to have access and the ability view reports and dashboards from any device, anywhere. 

Native mobile apps that can work with your solution is another important aspect for improving mobile use.

3. Visual

Look for a solution that has simple visual tools that make it easy for users, even those with non-technical skills, to build complete workflow and form solutions.

A solution with drag and drop features to configure logic, setting properties and selecting from given options is easy to learn.

4. Integration

Choose a solution that supports out-of-box integration with LOB systems. 

You need easy ways to connect to data and manipulate it in your forms and processes.

You should be able to build applications that securely cross the boundaries of multiple SharePoint lists, libraries, sites or environments. 

5. App Parity

Look for feature parity between SharePoint Online and SharePoint 2013. 

This helps ensure a seamless transition between on-premises solutions and the cloud so that your reusable workflow applications can work in both environments.

6. Access

Search for a solution that uses a data integration framework. This mean your data stays protected within its native system and can be accessed in real-time.

K2 SmartObjects really shine here.

7. Configurable

Look for built-in reporting and audit features that allow users to customize reporting dashboards by simple configuration. 

These dashboards provide visibility into bottlenecks and inefficiencies and allow users access to designated information.

8. Adherence

Adherence to SharePoint best practice is important for a 3rd party solution. This gives you the peace of mind that the solution will run smoothly, even when Microsoft releases updates.

9. One Product

Some solutions on the market require purchasing more than one product to meet your SharePoint needs. That’s not good for anyone’s bottom line. Look for an all-in-one solution.

10. No code

Unless you really love writing code, find a solution that lets you do all of the above without writing any code. Reducing custom code frees you from costly rewrites and reliability issues.

Note: This post is an adaptation of original content from K2. For an automated immersion experience of K2 through a real world example enter here