Introduction to SharePoint Online
Architecture & Setup
Site Management
Lists & Libraries
Pages & Content
Permissions & Security
Search & Navigation
Automation & Workflows
Integration & Extensibility
Development & Customization
Administration & Governance
Migration
Compliance & Records Management
Approval Flows
Structured Approvals
Approval flows establish a clear process for reviewing documents, forms, or requests. By requiring reviews before finalization, they reduce errors and create accountability. Employees know that no item can move forward until the necessary approvals are completed, which adds structure and consistency across business processes.
Multiple Approvers
Workflows can be set up to require approval from one manager or several stakeholders, depending on the complexity of the request. For instance, a routine expense might only need a supervisor’s confirmation, while a budget change could require finance and senior management involvement. This flexibility ensures that the right people always review the right items.
Notifications and Tracking
Approvers receive instant alerts when something requires their attention, while requestors can see real-time updates on progress. This visibility prevents delays, reduces the need for follow-up reminders, and builds trust in the process. Everyone knows where things stand without having to ask.
Integration with Outlook and Teams
Approvals can be completed directly within Outlook or Microsoft Teams, eliminating the need to switch between applications. This makes the process faster and less disruptive to daily work. Busy staff can approve requests from their inbox or chat, even while on the go.
Audit Trail
Every approval action is logged automatically in SharePoint. These records provide a complete history of decisions, which is useful for compliance, audits, and accountability. If questions arise later, organizations can easily trace who approved what and when.