I'm looking for advice on whether SharePoint can be set up as an 'upload only' target for student applicants at a university. With new government rules, we need to collect the actual portfolio submissions from potential students instead of just links. We want to create a site where students can upload their portfolios, which will include a video and a few PDFs, with a max size of around 3GB per upload. The key requirement is that once they upload, they shouldn't be able to view or edit anything afterward, just receive a confirmation receipt. Is SharePoint the right tool for this type of upload requirement, and why or why not?
5 Answers
If you’re thinking of automating the process, you could set up a specific folder in a document library for submissions, and then share that with the students. It would take some development work, but it can be done.
Honestly, SharePoint might not be your best solution here. Since you’re working with sensitive submissions, other platforms could be a safer bet for managing the uploads and protecting the students' data.
Why not consider using S3 or Azure for file storage? It might provide a more reliable solution for handling large uploads. Then you can connect it to SharePoint for the review process if needed. Keep it simple for the students; they shouldn’t have a tough time verifying their uploads!
There's a feature in SharePoint called 'request files' that lets you send a link to users for file uploads, but they won’t have any access to view or edit files. You might want to explore that option!
SharePoint isn't really the right fit for what you're trying to do. For your needs, Microsoft Forms might be a better option. You can have forms to collect info and let students upload files. Just keep in mind that its ability to handle a 3GB file is something to check into.
If you're set on using Microsoft 365, Forms is definitely the way to go. It collects the metadata alongside the file upload, but just like you said, check if it can manage larger files.
I feel you on SharePoint; it has many features, but for a simple upload without viewing access, Forms just seems cleaner!
I agree, and it's crucial to find the best system that ensures the students can confirm their uploads without worrying!