An intranet is an effective business tool but what exactly can be achieved by implementing one in your company?

Listed below are some examples of how an intranet could be applied to bring enormous benefits to your company. Use these ideas as a starting point, as the possibilities are almost endless, the rest is down to you and your creative imagination.

Intranets tend to be very popular with human resources departments, why? The main reason for this popularity is the ease with which a large amount of documentation can be made available online, to everyone on the network. Obviously, the need to print and distribute documentation is dramatically reduced, resulting in a significant reduction in costs.

Example applications

• Telephone and e-mail directories
• Internal recruitment announcements
• Company News
• Administrative tables
• New entrant training

Sales and marketing

Commercial markets are becoming ever more competitive and consequently it is essential that the sales and marketing teams/offices have quick access to accurate, up to date information. It can mean the difference between a client choosing you or your competitor.

Example applications

• Product images and descriptions
• Sales support materials
• Evaluation Tables
• Sales forecasts and reports
• Sales management tools
• Market research
• Sales statistics
• Competitor data
• Press releases

Client support

This is a very important area: an interface between you and your client base. A good example of client support is represented by logistics companies which need to keep track of sent packages.An intranet, with good planning, allows most clients to independently reach the desired information without burdening company human resources.

Example applications

• Client access and company data modifications
• Order entry and tracking
• Online information (databases on: clients, stock, supplies, etc.)
• Problem tracking
• FAQ