Internet and Intranet – an important distinction

The concepts of “Internet” and “intranet” frequently garner attention, often leading to some confusion. While the Internet has firmly embedded itself into our daily routines, the significance of the intranet remains equally essential, particularly in the corporate realm. In this extensive guide, we’ll navigate through the distinctions between these two terms and shed light on the invaluable role intranets play in today’s dynamic business environment.

Introduction to these terms

What is the Internet?
The Internet is a vast, interconnected network of computers and devices that spans the globe, facilitating the exchange of information, communication, and access to resources on a global scale. It’s the digital highway that enables users to connect to websites, send emails, participate in social media, and more. The Internet operates over a public infrastructure, allowing anyone with access to connect to it.

What is an intranet?
Intranets have grown from internal private networks to become entire platforms, providing a secure environment for internal communications and collaboration. An intranet functions similarly to the Internet but operates exclusively within a limited, defined group. Intranets are typically used by businesses, schools, and other institutions to share information, documents, and resources among employees, students, or members.

Why is having a company intranet useful?

Implementing a company intranet can bring a multitude of advantages to the table. Let’s explore some of the key reasons why having an intranet is essential in today’s business world:

1. Improved communication

Intranets serve as a centralized platform where employees can seamlessly communicate, collaborate, and share information. It bridges the gap between team members, departments, and locations, promoting synergy in the workplace. With features like chat, discussion boards, and file sharing, employees can work together more efficiently and make informed decisions.

2. Streamlined information

One of the primary functions of an intranet is to serve as a repository for documents, policies, and important company information. It ensures that all employees have access to the latest updates and resources, eliminating the need for endless email chains or physical distribution of documents. This results in improved consistency, accuracy, and compliance across the organization.

3. Employee empowerment

A survey by Deloitte found that there was a 20% increase in employee satisfaction and a corresponding 87% increase in employee retention in organizations that implemented social intranets. When employees feel that their voices are heard and that they have easy access to information and resources, they are more likely to be engaged and satisfied in their roles.

4. Faster access to information

In a study measuring the intranet benefits felt by businesses, 85% of respondents noted faster access to information as a significant intranet benefit. Intranets allow employees to quickly find the information they need, whether it’s a company policy, a colleague’s contact information, or a project update. This not only saves time but also boosts productivity.

5. A secure and controlled environment

Intranets are designed to be secure and controlled, providing organizations with the ability to manage access permissions, safeguard sensitive data, and protect against external threats. This level of control ensures that confidential information remains within the organization, reducing the risk of data breaches.

6. Simpler onboarding

New employees can benefit from an intranet’s organized resources. They can access training materials, company policies, and other onboarding resources in one convenient location. This streamlines the onboarding process, making it more efficient and ensuring that new hires get up to speed quickly.

The bottom line

In conclusion, while the Internet connects the world, the intranet connects an organization’s employees, processes, and information. As highlighted by the advantages and use cases discussed, the intranet is a powerful tool that enhances internal communication, collaboration, and productivity. For companies seeking to boost employee satisfaction, streamline operations, and foster a culture of knowledge sharing, implementing a company intranet is a wise choice.