MC1137601 – (Updated) Additional document processing rule actions for Microsoft SharePoint libraries (archived)

Product:

SharePoint

Platform:

Online, World tenant

Status:

Change type:

Feature update, Updated message

Links:

Details:

Summary:
Microsoft SharePoint libraries will gain new document processing rule actions—copy file to, move file to, and set content type—rolling out from late August to mid-September 2025. These enable automated file management based on metadata for users with edit permissions. Users should prepare by informing teams and reviewing existing rules.

Details:
Updated September 8, 2025: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience.
Introduction
We're expanding the capabilities of document processing rules in SharePoint libraries to help site owners and members better manage content. New actions-copy file to, move file to, and set content type to-will be available to all users with edit permissions, enabling more flexible automation based on file metadata.
When this will happen
Rollout will begin in late August 2025 and is expected to complete by mid-September 2025 (previously early September).

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:

Created:
2025-08-19

updated:
2025-09-09

Task Type

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Docu to Check

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MS How does it affect me

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MS Preperations

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MS Urgency

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MS workload name

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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

Increased Risk of Data Loss
Without proper preparation, users may inadvertently overwrite or lose files when using the new copy/move actions, especially if existing rules conflict with new ones.
   - roles: Site Owners, Content Managers
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/documentprocessing/content-processing-overview?view=o365-worldwide

User Confusion and Inefficiency
Users may experience confusion regarding the new functionalities, leading to inefficient file management and potential disruptions in workflow if they are not informed beforehand.
   - roles: End Users, IT Support Staff
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/documentprocessing/content-processing-overview?view=o365-worldwide

Configutation Options**

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Data Protection**

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explanation for non-techies**

Microsoft SharePoint is introducing new features to help users manage documents more efficiently. Imagine SharePoint as a digital filing cabinet where you store all your important documents. Previously, you had to manually move files from one drawer to another or label them by hand. Now, SharePoint is adding automation to this process, much like having a smart assistant who can organize your files for you based on specific instructions you give.

These new features include the ability to automatically copy or move files and set their type based on certain criteria, similar to how you might sort your mail into different piles depending on whether it's a bill, a letter, or a magazine. This is done using metadata, which is like the labels or tags you might use to identify what kind of document you're dealing with.

For example, if you have a rule that says all invoices should be moved to a specific folder once they're uploaded, SharePoint can now do this automatically. Or, if you want to ensure that all documents related to a particular project are tagged correctly, you can set a rule to do that too.

These changes will start rolling out from late August to mid-September 2025. It's a good idea to let your team know about these new features and review any existing rules you have set up to make sure they don't conflict with the new ones. This way, your digital filing cabinet stays organized and efficient.

For those managing these changes, it's similar to updating a playbook or manual for your team. You want to ensure everyone knows the new procedures and that everything runs smoothly without any hiccups. There are no new compliance issues identified with these changes, but it's always wise to review them to ensure they align with your organization's policies.