Microsoft has officially announced the end of extended support for SharePoint Server 2016. As this critical date approaches, organisations relying on SharePoint to manage controlled documents and compliance records face an inevitable decision: migrate or risk exposure to unsupported software, security gaps, and mounting operational inefficiencies.
The Implications of SharePoint 2016 End of Support
Once Microsoft ends support, SharePoint 2016 will no longer receive security updates, patches, or technical assistance. For businesses operating in regulated industries—such as mining, energy, or manufacturing—this presents a serious risk. Running on an unsupported platform can compromise compliance, weaken data governance, and create vulnerabilities that auditors and regulators will not overlook.
Beyond compliance, there’s also a strategic consideration. As the modern workplace evolves, legacy systems restrict collaboration, mobility, and automation—areas where modern document management solutions now excel.
Migrating from SharePoint 2016 to SharePoint Online might seem like the logical and most straightforward option. However, the reality is quite different. It is not a simple “lift and shift.” Technically, it can range from moderately complex to very challenging, depending on your environment.
Many solutions built on the 2016 platform—including popular third-party document control solutions—incorporate Full Trust Code, InfoPath forms, custom web parts, and SharePoint Designer workflows. All of these need to be re-engineered or replaced when moving to SharePoint Online.
Another key consideration—and ultimately the largest downside of location/folder-based solutions—is that the site architecture has changed considerably in SharePoint Online to a flat site collection model. This would also require complete re-architecting of most 2016 solutions that rely on nested hierarchical structures.
Fundamentally, therefore, the end-of-life status of SharePoint 2016 should be viewed as an opportunity not simply to migrate and rebuild existing capability in a newer version of the same product with the same constraints, but instead to revisit the fundamental business need and take advantage of next-generation alternatives to provide a truly scalable, fit-for-purpose solution.
Why It’s Time to Move to LCAB
LCAB (lcab.io), powered by M-Files™, is one such next-generation alternative that goes beyond traditional document storage. Instead of folder-based hierarchies, LCAB organises information based on what it is, not where it’s stored. This metadata-driven approach ensures faster access, stronger compliance, and better control over critical documentation.
Key advantages of moving to LCAB:
- Seamless compliance: Built-in audit trails, version control, and electronic signatures that meet ISO, FDA, and mining regulations.
- Stronger security: Role-based access with advanced permissions that safeguard confidential documents.
- Smarter document control: Automated workflows for document creation, revision, approval, and archiving.
- Cloud or hybrid flexibility: LCAB can be deployed in cloud, on-premises, or hybrid models—ideal for organisations still transitioning from legacy infrastructure.
- Rapid implementation: Migration tools and onboarding services make the transition from SharePoint smooth and low risk.
Future-Proof Your Document Management
Migrating from SharePoint 2016 before its support ends is not just about minimising risk—it’s about transforming how your organisation manages knowledge and compliance records. LCAB offers a modern, intelligent, and secure platform that will continue evolving with your business.
Now is the time to move from an aging SharePoint environment to a scalable, future-ready solution that aligns with industry standards and digital transformation goals.