Intranet Corner

The evaluation process

Now, faced with the fact that you are in the market for an Intranet-in-a-box application, how do you go about selecting an ideal package for your team to use? The following is of a list of a few key factors which you should consider when you are ready to invest in an "Intranet -like" solution.

• Size of team
• Security
• Project duration
• Hosting

Size of team

Some packages are priced based on the number of users that will be utilizing the application. Small groups are often granted free access to Web-based applications. Beyond groups of 6-8 people, services will apply a price for the number of projects. In addition, the size of your team will play a role when it comes to training to use a specific application. You may encounter a situation where you will be responsible for training your team of eight people before the project start date. Will your time allow you to train the members on a fairly complex application or are you better off purchasing a simple product that team members can teach themselves to use?

Security

Web-based applications are great when it comes to convenience; however, security should be a big concern when it comes to acquiring similar products. Be assured that you are provided with the necessary security mechanisms to prevent outsiders from gaining access and manipulating the data for your project.

Project Duration

Similar to team size, some applications base pricing on project duration. If you are collaborating on an assignment which will take a few days, some services offer free access to basic features of the product.

Hosting

If you are going to be utilizing an Intranet-in-a-box solution for a short time but will have no need for it afterwards, you will be better off finding a free hosting service. Packages with all the features that you plan to benefit from will often lead you to obtain a self-host solution. A self-host solution will give you the ability to archive projects and reports for future reference. For long-term projects and repeat usage, an ASP solution is your best bet for dependable hosting.

Here's a checklist of features that you should consider when purchasing Intranet-in-a- Box solution.