An intranet is a secure internal corporate environment that operates on a LAN and uses HTML and TCIP protocols. It can provide customized information for HR, sales, accounting, information systems, and executives. It facilitates cross-departmental cooperation and saves resources.
An intranet is a secure, internal corporate environment that uses HTML and TCIP protocols like the Internet, but operates on a local area network (LAN). If the LAN provides access to the Internet, the intranet resides behind a firewall, with no gateway to or from the Internet. Note that if there is a gateway, it is not an intranet, but an extranet.
An intranet incorporates a customized, interactive, operational environment to serve the business model, with familiar Internet-like functionality and navigation. It can be basic or comprehensive as needed. Some general examples of intranet information or processes include:
Human Resources: From employee training materials to an employee handbook, an intranet can provide quick and easy access to key employee publications and processes. It can help employees track and manage their benefits, including their 401(k), for example. Application status and processing, as well as employee rosters, can also be accessed via the company intranet. General corporate communications such as employee newsletters and newsgroups or chat boards may also be provided internally.
Sales Department: One of the most productive uses of an intranet is interactive multimedia training. Sales reports, forecasts and targets, marketing strategies and geographic saturation are all tools that can be kept at the click of a mouse. Profiles of potential new markets or customers and information about potential competing markets can also assist sales personnel in designing better sales models.
Accounting Department: Inquiry requests on an intranet will save time, resources and money. The pages within it can be password protected to limit employee access or administratively controlled. Payroll, credit/debit, and budget reports can all reside there.
Information Systems: Access to data warehousing, departmental software development applications, and network support can be invaluable uses of an intranet. Support, in the form of FAQs and interactive tutorials for virtually any purpose or department, can be stored there, allowing employees to learn on their own while minimizing training investment. Security information and technical resources are also common uses of an intranet.
Executive Branch: Basic information such as quarterly profit/loss reports, stock market analysis, tax and legal information, and merger or partnership information can be neatly provided in this environment. Meeting minutes, appointment calendars and key profiles (employees, companies or clients) can also reside here.
An intranet provides quick and easy access to information in a familiar environment while keeping this information safe off the public internet. It also facilitates cross-departmental cooperation and saves hard and soft resources.
If you are considering an intranet, consultants who specialize in site development can help you take the next step and advise you on the potential benefits and costs involved for your specific business.
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