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How to Open a New Word Document from a SharePoint Content Type Template
Question details
Users need a way to open and create a new Word document directly from a centralized SharePoint content type template using a link or automation.
- Product
- Microsoft Word / SharePoint
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Creating new documents based on centralized SharePoint templates for team collaboration.
- Observed behavior
- SharePoint link web parts sometimes reject custom ms-word URIs because they require standard HTTP, HTTPS, or mailto links, blocking direct template creation.
Ensure you have the exact URL of your SharePoint template and the destination save location URL before creating your links.
Use a Word URI Scheme Link
Use the ms-word protocol to launch Word directly and create a new document based on your template, provided your environment supports custom URI schemes.
The Word URI scheme allows you to bypass the browser and directly command the local Word application to create a new file from a template and save it to a specific location.
Format your link using the structure: ms-word:nft|u|TEMPLATE_URL|s|SAVE_LOCATION. Replace 'TEMPLATE_URL' with the direct link to your .docx template and 'SAVE_LOCATION' with the URL of the destination SharePoint folder.
Embed this formulated link in a supported webpage, Quick Links web part (if custom protocols are enabled), or intranet portal that allows the ms-word: URI scheme.
Direct Users to the Document Library
A reliable fallback when strict SharePoint link web parts reject the ms-word protocol.
Automate Creation via Power Automate
Build a custom button or automated flow to generate the template file without relying on manual URI links.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does SharePoint reject my ms-word link?
By default, the SharePoint link web part may only accept HTTP, HTTPS, or mailto protocols for security reasons, causing it to reject custom application protocols like ms-word:.
How do I find the URL of my SharePoint template?
Navigate to your Document Library settings, select the specific Content Type, click on Advanced Settings, and copy the URL of the template document listed there.
Can I use Power Automate to generate documents from templates automatically?
Yes, you can create a Power Automate flow triggered by a button click or list item creation to automatically copy a template file into a new document library location.
