Because SharePoint is a platform for end user solutions and other third-party SharePoint applications to reside, the costs of ownership can dramatically decrease because installation costs and administration is spread across multiple business functions, and end user training is reduced because users are already using the application. This makes deployment of applications easier because the technology is already installed, and cultural acceptance within the company is in turn made easier because the users are already using the technology for other purposes.
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This is why a lot of third-party applications have an interface deliberately designed to look like Microsoft's Office because it is easier to learn as people are more familiar with it, making the transition to using the technology go all the more smoothly.
Because there are multiple applications working off the same platform, integration of workflow, security, and file management is easier to manage as there is a single interface for administration, user authentication, and user management. This is a major win in breaking down the information silos of a company.
First impressions of SharePoint and what it can do for a department and the individual are very important. If these are not favorable then enterprise deployments can be difficult.
In the past, IT departments have deployed boutique applications for different business requirements that usually provide short term benefits and additional overhead for both users and the IT department. Because of an extended learning curve, more technologies are needed for support, as are additional licenses.
SharePoint can be installed on premise or purchased as a hosted option from a third-party hosting company. Obviously, with the hosted approach, the IT department can be completely by-passed with a deployment. We recommend that if there is a business need that requires SharePoint, and the IT department is reluctant to deploy it in a desired timeframe, the hosted option should be considered with the IT department's involvement. This way, IT governance, security, and policy can be incorporated into the deployment.