Modern vs Classic SharePoint – What’s the Difference?

 As businesses adapt to hybrid work models and digital transformation strategies, SharePoint continues to be a vital tool for enterprise collaboration and content management. Yet, many organizations are still navigating the transition from Classic SharePoint to the more streamlined and efficient Modern SharePoint experience.

If your team is still unsure about the differences—or hesitant to make the switch—this guide will break it down clearly and help you understand why Modern SharePoint is the future.

🔍 User Interface: Modern is Designed for Today

One of the first things users notice is the stark contrast in design and usability between Classic and Modern SharePoint.

Classic SharePoint, while functional, looks dated and feels cumbersome. It relies heavily on static layouts, fixed page elements, and often requires custom code to create a polished look. Pages can be clunky and difficult to manage, especially on mobile devices.

Modern SharePoint, on the other hand, is clean, responsive, and user-friendly out of the box. It adapts seamlessly to different screen sizes and devices, making it perfect for remote and on-the-go teams. Page creation is intuitive and code-free, with drag-and-drop web parts that enable even non-technical users to build dynamic, attractive pages in minutes.

⚙️ Capabilities: Productivity at Its Core

🔧 Classic SharePoint Challenges:

• Customizations typically require SharePoint Designer or InfoPath, both of which are outdated and unsupported.

• Updating content can be time-consuming and requires technical knowledge.

• Users face steep learning curves and slow performance.

• Compatibility with new Microsoft 365 features is limited.

🚀 Modern SharePoint Advantages:

• No coding necessary to build engaging pages and intranet portals.

• Integrated with Microsoft 365 apps like Teams, Planner, OneDrive, and Power Automate.

• Lightning-fast performance, optimized for web and mobile.

• Easier content governance with enhanced permissions and lifecycle management.

In essence, Modern SharePoint gives users more power and fewer roadblocks. Your team spends less time fighting the tool and more time using it effectively.

🌍 Built for the Cloud and the Future

Modern SharePoint is designed with cloud-first principles. It supports continuous updates from Microsoft, ensuring you're always on the latest version with the latest features and security patches—without manual intervention or downtime.

Here’s why Modern is the future:

• Classic is frozen in time: No new updates or features are being developed for it.

• Modern integrates seamlessly with Power Platform, Microsoft Viva, Loop, and more.

• Improved security and compliance features are built in.

• Faster onboarding and lower support costs due to easier usability.

If your organization is planning to scale or optimize remote collaboration, Modern SharePoint should be your standard.

📝 What About Customizations?

Some organizations resist moving to Modern due to custom solutions built on Classic. However, most modern functionalities can now be replicated—or even improved—using:

• SPFx (SharePoint Framework) components

• Power Automate flows

• Modern site templates

• Viva Connections for personalized intranet experiences

Instead of relying on legacy solutions that are difficult to support and secure, Modern SharePoint encourages scalable and sustainable customization methods.

✅ Conclusion: Time to Make the Shift

Transitioning from Classic to Modern SharePoint is not just about updating the look and feel—it’s a strategic upgrade that improves performance, usability, and collaboration across the board.

By adopting Modern SharePoint, you're empowering your users to do more with less effort, reducing technical debt, and future-proofing your digital workspace for continued growth and innovation.

📅 Next Week:

Week 3 – “Site Architecture in Modern SharePoint: Hub Sites, Communication Sites & Team Sites”
We’ll explain how to organize your SharePoint environment using modern site types to support effective content management and navigation.