Viva Connections vs. Custom SharePoint Intranet: Which to Choose?

Introduction

Microsoft offers two main paths for an intranet in Microsoft 365: Viva Connections (a Teams-based experience) and a custom SharePoint intranet. Both have their place. This article helps you decide which fits your organization.

What Is Viva Connections?

Viva Connections is a Microsoft 365 app that surfaces SharePoint content inside Microsoft Teams. It provides:

A dashboard with cards (news, tasks, resources)
A feed of personalized content
A resources area that links to SharePoint sites
Mobile app access via the Teams app

It’s included with certain Microsoft 365 and Viva licenses.

What Is a Custom SharePoint Intranet?

A custom SharePoint intranet is built directly on SharePoint: hub sites, communication sites, document libraries, and custom pages. It’s the traditional intranet model, fully controlled and branded.

Viva Connections: Pros and Cons

Pros

Fast to launch – Uses existing SharePoint sites; minimal setup.
Teams-native – Employees already in Teams see the intranet there.
Mobile-friendly – Works in the Teams mobile app.
Low maintenance – Microsoft handles the app experience.

Cons

Less control – Layout and navigation are constrained by the Viva Connections model.
Teams dependency – Best for organizations where Teams is the primary workspace.
Limited customization – You can’t fully redesign the experience.

Custom SharePoint Intranet: Pros and Cons

Pros

Full control – Design, structure, and branding match your needs.
Standalone – Works in the browser without requiring Teams.
Deep customization – SPFx, Power Apps, custom web parts.
Flexible navigation – Hub sites, megamenus, custom layouts.

Cons

More setup – Requires planning, design, and development.
Ongoing ownership – You maintain the structure and content.

When to Choose Viva Connections

Teams is the primary collaboration tool.
You need a quick launch with minimal IT effort.
A dashboard + feed + resources model fits your needs.
You want a mobile-first experience with little custom work.

When to Choose a Custom SharePoint Intranet

You need full control over layout and branding.
You have specific workflows, forms, or integrations.
You want an intranet that works in the browser without Teams.
You’re building a long-term, scalable intranet.

Hybrid Approach

Many organizations use both: Viva Connections as the Teams entry point, linking to custom SharePoint sites for deeper content and tools. This gives quick access in Teams plus the flexibility of SharePoint.

Conclusion

Viva Connections suits Teams-heavy organizations that want a fast launch. A custom SharePoint intranet suits those who need full control and customization. Microsoft 365 intranet consulting can help you choose and implement the right approach.