Need to Set up and Intranet or Extranet? Here are Your Options
Author: Rick Mosenkis
Setting up an intranet or extranet can be as easy as purchasing access through an application service provider (ASP), purchasing and installing third-party software, or building an extranet or intranet internally.
Here is a quick summary of the advantages and disadvantages of each approach:
1. Building it yourself
Advantages:
Complete control of user interface design
Ability to customize level of functionality for each client
Integration into internal systems
Direct access to user activity
Disadvantages:
High up-front development cost
Requires staff expertise in the development of intranets and extranets
Commitment of internal staff for 6 months to a year for planning, execution, review and implementation
An ongoing commitment of internal staff for internal and client support, hosting, maintenance and upgrades
2. Purchasing/installing third-party software
Advantages:
Proven track-record of packaged solution
Ability to choose functions and to customize user interface
More rapid implementation compared to building it yourself
Disadvantages:
High up-front purchase cost
Commitment of internal staff for customization and implementation
Ongoing commitment of internal staff for internal and client support, hosting, maintenance and upgrades
Extensive internal and client training
3. Using a Service Provider (ASP)
Advantages:
Proven track-record, often with expertise in the application of intranets and extranets in particular industries
Low cost of entry and predictable cost over time
Virtually immediate implementation
No commitment of internal staff for internal and client support, hosting, or maintenance
Upgrades at no cost by extranet experts
Savings on internal server use
Disadvantages:
Less freedom in user interface design
Fixed functionality
In the final analysis
The approach you choose depends on how you work, the technical and financial resources at your disposal, and how rapidly you need to move forward.
Author Bio:
Rick Mosenkis
Rick Mosenkis is the President and CEO of Trichys, the creators of WorkZone hosted intranet and extranet software. With customers around the world, among large and small companies, Trichys develops easy-to-use web-based software that allows non-technical business professionals to leverage the power of the Internet without IT support.
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