New approval function in SharePoint – Simply activate, use directly!

Contents

    Microsoft has integrated a new function in SharePoint: “Configure approvals”.

    The new Activate approval function in SharePoint helps you to keep track of important documents.

    In order to activate the new approval function in SharePoint, it is important that all team members are informed.

    You should know that you can activate the new approval function in SharePoint to optimize the approval process.

    This is particularly useful if you want to activate the new approval function in SharePoint to save time.

    This function is part of Microsoft 365 and aims to optimize the workflow within companies. In today’s fast-paced business world, it is essential to simplify and automate processes. The new approval feature in SharePoint enables teams to collaborate more efficiently and make decisions faster.

    A common problem that can be solved with the new activate approval function in SharePoint is delays in the approval process.

    An example of this is when a team member submits a document for approval. Instead of waiting for manual approval, the relevant people can be notified immediately. This not only saves time, but also improves the traceability of approvals.

    This allows you to start a release process directly in a document library without complex Power Automate programming – and with just a few clicks.


    This feature is particularly useful for companies that frequently work with documents that need to be approved by multiple people. With the new approval function in SharePoint, companies activate a smooth approval process that increases efficiency and reduces the error rate.

    How to activate the authorizations

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    New approval function in SharePoint – Simply activate, use directly! 5
    1. Open document library – Navigate to the desired SharePoint library.
    2. Open menu – Click on “Automate”“Configure approvals” at the top.
    3. Make settings – Specify:
      • Who must approve (individual persons or groups)
      • Whether new files, changes or both are checked
      • Whether notifications should be sent
    4. Save – From now on the approval process runs automatically.

    💡 A uthorizations: You need at least edit rights in the library and the authorization to create Power Automate flows. You usually have this as a member or owner of the website.


    Advantages over self-built Power-Automate-Flows

    The ability to send notifications to approvers is another advantage. This keeps everyone informed and allows them to react in good time. This is particularly important in scenarios where deadlines have to be met.

    • Quick start: No programming, no complicated setup.
    • Directly integrated: Works without external flow management, completely from within SharePoint.
    • Clear: Uniform interface, no separate flow lists or complicated logic.
    • Reduced susceptibility to errors: Fewer steps mean fewer potential sources of error.
    • No additional license knowledge required: Standard M365 licenses are usually sufficient.

    Enabling the new approval function in SharePoint is a step in the right direction for better collaboration.


    The benefits of the approval function are not just limited to internal communication. This function can also significantly improve collaboration with external partners. Companies can ensure that all necessary approvals have been obtained before sending to third parties.

    Disadvantages compared to individual Power Automate processes

    • Less flexible: Individual logics, branches or multi-levels are restricted.
    • No complex conditions: If-then branches or database queries are not integrated.
    • Less integration: External systems (e.g. Teams, Planner, ERP) cannot be connected as freely.
    • No branding or design customization: emails and notifications are predefined.
    • Less automation potential: No combination with other processes such as automatic archiving or metadata maintenance.

    Conclusion

    Another advantage is the ability to adapt the approval processes to different requirements. Teams can define exactly who has to approve and which documents are reviewed, which increases flexibility in use.

    The new “Configure approvals” function is perfect for you if you want to activate an approval process in SharePoint quickly and easily.

    However, if you need complex, multi-level or cross-system approvals, a customized Power Automate flow is the better choice.

    💡 Tip: If the menu item “Configure permissions” is not clickable, a website owner must give you the appropriate authorization level. This allows you to activate the new approval function in SharePoint and benefit from it to the full.

    The implementation of this function does not require extensive IT training. Users can work with the existing SharePoint functions, which lowers the entry barrier for new users and minimizes the training effort.

    In addition to the benefits already mentioned, the new approval function in SharePoint can also be very easily integrated into existing workflows. Companies that already use SharePoint can activate this function immediately and benefit from the advantages.

    Overall, the new approval feature in SharePoint offers a well-designed solution for modern organizations looking to simplify their approval processes. Companies that adapt to the needs of their employees promote a more productive and happy working environment.

    Finally, it is important to emphasize that the decision to use this feature depends on the company’s specific requirements. Companies should take the time to weigh up the advantages and disadvantages in order to find the best solution for their needs.

    If you want to activate the new approval function in SharePoint, you can ensure that all relevant documents are processed quickly.

    The new Activate approval function in SharePoint makes the entire process more transparent.

    The decision to activate the new approval function in SharePoint should be carefully considered.

    The ability to activate the new approval function in SharePoint at any time is a great advantage.

    With the new Activate approval function in SharePoint, you can significantly increase the efficiency of your team.

    In many cases, it makes sense to activate the new approval function in SharePoint in order to receive quick feedback.

    Dieser Beitrag ist auch verfügbar auf: Deutsch (German)

    Updated on 19. September 2025
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