What does an Intranet Implementation specialist do?
An intranet implementation specialist builds and launches a centralized digital workplace that connects employees to company news, tools, and resources. This role transforms scattered files and disconnected systems into a structured SharePoint environment within Microsoft 365. The specialist designs the site architecture, migrates legacy content, and configures the user interface to match organizational branding and security requirements. They also train staff on how to use the new platform and establish governance rules to keep information accurate and compliant over time.
- Designs the intranet site architecture by creating a home site, topic-specific hubs, and communication sites that align with business goals. This structure organizes information logically so employees find documents and announcements without searching through multiple folders or drives.
- Configures the intranet portal experience using SharePoint modern pages, web parts, and navigation elements like mega menus. The specialist applies Microsoft 365 themes to match company branding and integrates features such as Viva Engage feeds or news widgets to drive employee engagement.
- Executes content migration plans by auditing existing intranet material and moving relevant data to the new SharePoint environment. This process includes setting up redirects from old URLs to prevent broken links and ensuring that historical records remain accessible during the transition.
- Establishes governance strategies that define roles, retention policies, and security permissions for site owners and content authors. The specialist creates documentation and training materials to help teams manage their own sites while maintaining compliance with company standards.
How to hire an Intranet Implementation specialist on Upwork
Step 1: Post a job
Define your SharePoint architecture needs and migration goals clearly to attract qualified candidates. Use the Job Post Generator powered by Uma™, Upwork's Mindful AI to draft a precise description from a few sentences about your requirements. You can write a new post, update a saved draft, or reuse an existing post to start hiring.
- Specify that the freelancer must plan communication sites and hubs aligned with your business outcomes.
- List required skills in Microsoft 365 theme branding and Viva Engage feed integration for the portal experience.
- Request examples of previous intranet governance strategies that support retention and security compliance.
Step 2: Evaluate candidates
Look for portfolios showing configured home sites with modern web parts and clear navigation structures. Uma can run instant video interviews and build shortlists with side-by-side comparisons to help you assess technical fit quickly.
- Verify experience building mega menus and news web part layouts that drive user engagement on the home page.
- Check for documented migration plans that audit existing content and map it to new SharePoint structures.
- Review samples of training materials created for content authors and site owners during past rollouts.
Step 3: Interview your top choices
Discuss how candidates approach stakeholder alignment and solution planning for complex intranet frameworks. Schedule and conduct interviews within Upwork Messages to receive an immediate transcript and summary after each conversation.
- Ask how they configure Microsoft Forms surveys to gather user feedback during the intranet design phase.
- Question their method for connecting line-of-business apps to the intranet portal for seamless data access.
- Evaluate their strategy for managing redirects and launch communications to minimize user disruption.
Step 4: Agree on scope and begin work
Set clear milestones for site architecture, content migration, and governance policy creation. Use Upwork Messages and the contract workroom for communication and project management, plus identity verification, payment protection, hourly tracking, and project funds for security.
- Define deliverables such as the completed home site, topic-specific hubs, and the final migration execution report.
- Establish a timeline for configuring platform integrations and testing Viva Engage feeds before launch.
- Agree on a training schedule for internal teams to maintain the intranet after the specialist completes the build.
Upwork is not affiliated with and does not sponsor or endorse any of the tools or services discussed in this article. These tools and services are provided only as potential options, and each reader and company should take the time needed to adequately analyze and determine the tools or services that would best fit their specific needs and situation.
The rates and information provided in this article are based on current data and industry sources available at the time of publication. Freelance rates can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, project scope, and market conditions. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research to confirm current rates and trends, as this information may change over time.