Fix Export Import Sharepoint Site in Office on Windows

If your workflow is blocked, confirm the account and app context, then follow the ordered fixes below.

Problem Description: Export Import Sharepoint Site

I have a SharePoint source site which contain a People/Group field linked to a SharePoint group named "Level2", as follow:-  now i export the site using this powershell:- ```yaml Get-PnPSiteTemplate -Out "c:\users\mo\site.xml" ``` then i created a new site, apply the template using this powershell:- ```yaml Invoke-PnPSiteTemplate -Path "c:\users\mo\site.xml" ``` but on the destination SharePoint site this field will be linked to all users instead of been linked to the related group (Level2), although the Level2 group was imported successfully. any advice, how to preserve this setting?  Thanks

Quick Answer for Document Quick Fix

When using `Get-PnPSiteTemplate` and `Invoke-PnPSiteTemplate` to export and import SharePoint sites, the preservation of the values in People/Group fields can sometimes be problematic.

Likely Causes Behind Office Failure Patterns

• The Microsoft account or license context may not match the purchase or device.

• Cached credentials, outdated builds, or damaged local components can trigger document & file issues.

• A file-specific corruption or add-in conflict can mimic a broader application failure.

Recommended Solution: Installing Office on a New PC

When to use this: Apply these steps when the symptoms match and you can access the relevant Microsoft account or administrator.

1. This is due to how these fields are handled during the export and import process.

2. Here are a few suggestions to help you preserve the settings for the People/Group field linked to a SharePoint group: 1. **Check Template Options**: Ensure that when you are exporting the site template, you are including all necessary options that pertain to the People/Group fields.

3. Sometimes, specific parameters may need to be set to ensure that group memberships are preserved.

4. 2. **Post-Import Configuration**: After importing the site template, you might need to manually set the People/Group field to link to the correct SharePoint group.

5. This can be done using PowerShell scripts that specifically update the field after the template has been applied.

6. 3. **Use PnP PowerShell**: Consider using additional PnP PowerShell commands to manage the group memberships directly after the import.

7. Commands like `Set-PnPListItem` can be useful to update the specific field values after the site template has been applied.

8. 4. **Review Permissions**: Ensure that the account you are using has the necessary permissions to modify the People/Group fields and that the group exists in the destination site.

Alternative Solutions for Fallback Options for Document

1. Retry the Microsoft-side steps after restarting the app and device.

2. Test the same action in a private browser session or a new blank file to isolate account vs file issues.

3. Capture exact error text and screenshots before contacting Microsoft Support or your administrator.

Working with WPS Office: Editing Files in WPS During Document

WPS Office cannot replace Microsoft account, activation, or cloud fixes for this scenario. It remains one of the best free Microsoft Office-compatible alternatives for opening and editing local files.

1. Download and install WPS Office from the official website.

2. Open local Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or PDF files in the matching WPS app.

3. Save a working copy locally while Microsoft-side issues are resolved.

4. Return to Microsoft Office after the primary fix succeeds.

If you need a practical local workspace in the meantime, try WPS Office.

Prevention Tips for Smooth Office Device Transfers

• Keep one primary Microsoft account for subscriptions and Office sign-in.

• Install updates for Office and Windows before retrying failed workflows.

• Back up important files before repair, reset, or reinstall actions.

• Work on copies and keep version history enabled when available.

FAQs About Document Help Topics

Can WPS Office fix this document & file issues issue directly? Only when the WPS steps match the formatting or file task. Account, activation, and cloud issues stay on the Microsoft side.

Should I reinstall Office before trying these steps? Not first. Confirm account, license, and the exact error before reinstalling.

What should I send to Microsoft Support? The affected account email, device type, Office version, exact error text, and screenshots with personal data hidden.