Start with inventory quality
Lifecycle policy quality depends on inventory quality. Consolidate Teams, Groups, and SharePoint data into a single source of truth before setting automated actions.
Track inactivity signals, owner completeness, and business criticality to avoid broad policies that break real collaboration needs.
Use policy bands, not one universal timer
Use different renewal windows for project spaces, departmental spaces, and regulated records. A one-size policy causes either risk or unnecessary friction.
Automate reminders and define default actions for non-response to keep policy enforcement predictable.