Overcoming Sharepoint’S Lack Of Built-In Url Rewriting
The Problem: SharePoint’s Out-of-the-Box URL Structure
SharePoint sites come with default URL structures that are long, convoluted, and not very user or search engine friendly. For example, a typical page URL might look like “http://sharepoint.company.com/sites/division/subsite/Lists/Announcements/AllItems.aspx”. This creates a poor user experience having to navigate and reference long, complex URLs. Additionally, the default URLs do not lend themselves well to search engine optimization efforts.
Why URL Rewriting Matters for SharePoint Sites
Implementing custom URL rewriting rules allows SharePoint sites to overcome the limitations of the default URL structure. There are two major benefits:
- Improved user experience – simplified and descriptive URLs are easier to reference and navigate
- Enhanced search engine optimization (SEO) – keywords and structure can be tailored to boost rankings and exposure
With custom link shortening and organization, SharePoint sites can transform messy default URLs into streamlined paths that guide users and search bots alike. The difficulty lies in that SharePoint does not have built-in URL rewriting capacity out-of-the-box.
Approaches to Implementing URL Rewriting
Modifying IIS Rewrite Rules
One approach is editing the rewrite rules on the Internet Information Services (IIS) server directly. This involves configuring the web server to reroute requests from custom paths to the original SharePoint URLs. The downside is that it requires low-level server access and technical expertise.
Using Third-Party Modules and Extensions
A simpler approach is to utilize a third-party module or extension that handles URL rewriting at the SharePoint application layer. Some popular options include the URL Rewrite Extension, SharePoint URL Shortener, and Clay Tablet’s Connector.
An Example Solution: Installing and Configuring the URL Rewrite Extension
The Microsoft URL Rewrite Extension allows configuring rewrite rules entirely through SharePoint without having to edit IIS settings directly. Here is a step-by-step guide to installing and configuring it for custom URL rewriting.
Downloading and Enabling the Extension
First, download the URL Rewrite Extension from Microsoft’s site or the SharePoint store. Then navigate to the SharePoint Central Administration site and go to the Extensions page. Click “Deploy Extension” and upload the files. This will install and enable the extension.
Crafting Custom Rewrite Rules
Next, navigate to the site collection where rewrites will take effect and select the “URL Rewrite” settings. Here new rules can be defined including match conditions and the path to reroute to. Some examples:
- Match: /employees, Maps To: /sites/marketing/lists/staffdirectory.aspx
- Match: /office-locations, Maps To: /sites/realestate/listsoffices.aspx
Complex wildcard and regex pattern matching is also possible here. Best practices are to map descriptive new paths to existing long URLs.
Testing the New URL Structure
Before launching, test by accessing the rewritten URLs from a browser to ensure proper redirects. All links should now point to the new paths automatically. Monitoring server logs helps uncover any issues.
Additional Considerations for Managing Custom URLs
Accounting for Changes in Site Structure
If content gets reorganized in SharePoint, any hardcoded links could break. Dynamic rules help by pointing to lists or library names rather than specific files. Redirects should route URLs that no longer work to the new correct path.
Maintaining Consistency Across Pages
Apply rules globally at the site collection level whenever possible for consistency. Control site-wide settings from the top navigation bar which reflects rewritten links. Check for broken links regularly as changes roll out.
The Benefits of Investing in URL Rewrites
While implementing custom URL rewriting requires some initial effort, the long-term benefits make it worthwhile for enhancing SharePoint sites.
Improved Search Engine Optimization
Descriptive, user-friendly URLs allow search bots to better crawl and categorize pages, improving organic rankings and exposure. This in turn drives greater visitor traffic to SharePoint sites.
Enhanced User Experience
Simpler URLs with relevant keywords help users better understand and navigate site architecture – supporting findability. Visitors can access pages faster without having to work with lengthy default paths.
Flexible Custom URL Structures
URL rewriting allows modifying site navigation to meet evolving business needs instead of being limited by default technical constraints. Custom shortenings and groupings improve information architecture over time.
