Template Issues

How to Fix DOTM Templates Not Working Correctly in SharePoint

Algirdas Jasaitis Oct 1, 2026 868 views

Question details

DOTM (macro-enabled) templates fail to open directly for editing or apply properly to DOCX files within SharePoint and OneDrive.

Fix DOTM Templates Not Working Correctly in SharePoint

Product: SharePoint, OneDrive, Microsoft Word
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: A user is trying to open, edit, and apply a macro-enabled DOTM template hosted on SharePoint or synced via OneDrive.
Observed behavior: The DOTM file does not open directly for editing in SharePoint, and edited templates are not recognized when applying them to a DOCX file. Downloading the file locally works as a workaround.

Before you start

Before proceeding, ensure you have the desktop version of your word processor installed, as web browsers cannot natively process macro-enabled DOTM templates.

Solution 1Recommended

Diagnose and Troubleshoot SharePoint DOTM Sync Issues

Since DOTM templates rely on desktop application capabilities for macros, web-based syncing can sometimes fail. Follow these steps to diagnose permissions, check sync status, and utilize effective workarounds.

SharePoint and OneDrive sometimes struggle with macro-enabled templates due to browser limitations and security restrictions. Diagnosing the exact point of failure helps determine if it's a local sync issue, a permission error, or a web viewer limitation.

Test the 'Open in app' feature

Navigate to your SharePoint document library, select the DOTM file, and click 'Open in app' from the top ribbon instead of opening it in the browser. This forces the desktop application to handle the macro-enabled template properly.

Verify OneDrive synchronization

Check your local OneDrive client in the system tray (Windows) or menu bar (Mac). Ensure it is actively syncing the SharePoint folder and that there are no red 'X' error icons preventing the template updates.

Check site permissions

Ask the SharePoint site owner or other users to attempt opening the same DOTM file. If multiple users face the issue, it may be a site-wide permission or library configuration error rather than a local client issue.

Use the local download workaround

If SharePoint continues to fail to recognize the template, select the DOTM file, click 'Download' from the top menu, edit the template locally on your PC, and then upload the updated version back to SharePoint.

Diagnose and Troubleshoot SharePoint DOTM Sync Issues

Provide Error Screenshots to IT: If these steps do not resolve the issue, take a complete screenshot of any specific error messages you receive when attempting to apply the template and provide it to your IT administrator for further diagnostics.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for Seamless Template Editing

If Microsoft Office and SharePoint are causing persistent template syncing issues, WPS Office offers a lightweight and highly compatible alternative. Enjoy seamless local editing of Word templates without heavy cloud-sync errors.

1. Download and Install: Visit the official WPS website and download the free WPS Office suite for your operating system.
2. Open Your Templates: Launch WPS Writer and open your downloaded DOTM or DOCX files directly from your local drive.
3. Edit and Save Locally: Edit your templates with full formatting compatibility and save them securely on your local device.

Highly compatible with Microsoft Word formats, including DOCX, DOTX, and DOTM.Lightweight and fast, avoiding heavy cloud-sync crashes and errors.Familiar user interface requires no learning curve for Office users.Easily manage and apply local templates without relying on complex server configurations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why won't my DOTM file open in the SharePoint web viewer?

SharePoint's web viewer does not support executing or fully editing macro-enabled templates (.dotm) in the browser due to security restrictions. You must use the 'Open in app' feature to edit them in a desktop application.

What is a DOTM file and how is it different from a DOCX?

A DOTM file is a Microsoft Word macro-enabled document template. Unlike a standard DOCX file, it contains default layouts, settings, and macros (automated scripts) used to create multiple documents with identical formatting and functionality.

How do I fix OneDrive not syncing my edited SharePoint templates?

Ensure your OneDrive client is updated and running. Click the OneDrive cloud icon in your system tray, check for any sync errors or file conflicts, and try pausing and resuming the sync to force an update of the SharePoint library.

Does WPS Office support opening DOTM templates?

Yes, WPS Office supports opening and editing standard Word template files, ensuring high compatibility with your existing Microsoft Office document formats.

Document & File Issues