When uploading a custom app to the SharePoint App Catalog, you need to specify where the app should be made available. During the upload process, you'll be prompted to choose from various distribution options that determine how and where the app will be displayed.
These options typically include.
- Office
- SharePoint
- Manage user requests
In this article, we will explain each of these distribution options in detail, outlining the scenarios in which each is most appropriate. We’ll also discuss when and why to use each option based on the intended purpose of your app and the user experience you want to provide.
First, we will briefly discuss the App Catalog, and then continue with the distribution options.
What is the App Catalog?
An App Catalog is a centralised location in SharePoint Online or SharePoint Server used for uploading, managing, validating, and approving custom or third-party applications for a particular organization.
In SharePoint Online, there are mainly two types of App Catalogs: Tenant App Catalog, which is accessible across the entire tenant, and the site collection app catalogue, which is accessible only within a specific site collection.
Explanation of Distribution Options
When uploading an app to the App Catalog, you will see the following key distribution options, as shown in the image below.
![App Catalog]()
1. Distribute apps for SharePoint
- This option is used to upload and manage apps that are developed or designed to add extra functionality or extend the features of a SharePoint site. By selecting this option, the app can be made available for installation on SharePoint sites by users who have the appropriate permissions.
- Use this option when the app is designed to run within SharePoint—for example, web parts or list integrations
2. Distribute apps for Office
- This option is used to upload and manage apps that are developed for Office applications such as Word, Excel, or PowerPoint. By selecting this option, the app becomes available in the Office Add-ins Store for users within your organization.
- Use this option when you are uploading an Office add-in, such as content add-ins or Excel add-ins.
3. Manage requests for apps
- This option allows administrators to review and manage app requests submitted by end users.
- Using this option, an admin can upload an app and either approve or reject it based on the business justification provided by the user.
For example, if a user requests an app for a specific business need, the administrator can evaluate the request. If approved, the app will be made available to the user or added to the relevant SharePoint site.
As a best practice, before uploading an app, clearly identify your app type and determine the appropriate location for its deployment. Based on this, you can select the correct distribution option. Additionally, ensure that your app meets security requirements and complies with organizational standards to avoid having your request declined or rejected.
Conclusion
These options are primarily used for managing and distributing custom applications and add-ins within your organization—whether they are intended for Office, SharePoint, or a combination of both.
By selecting the correct distribution option, the app is uploaded to the appropriate location, making it easier to access and use its functionality. This also helps streamline and manage your organization’s app ecosystem more effectively.