8 Expert tips on Selecting the Best Intranet Provider for your Small Business
So, it's only been in the last quarter that your boot-strapped business started growing. The profits have started pouring in, teams are working diligently and your marketing plans are successful. However, lack of employee communication and engagement within the company is a big issue. You have realised that it is time for your business to invest in an intranet provider to help improve communication and collaboration within the company. But with the many providers in the market, how do you select the best company intranet for your small business? Here are eight expert tips to help you make the best decision for your business.
Define Your Business Needs
Every business has pre-defined core objectives and a target customer as a base. In the same way, before you start your search for an intranet provider, you should first have a clear understanding of your business needs. Do you want to use the intranet for collaboration or communication? Do you have specific modules in mind that you want to be included in the intranet software? Once you know your business needs, it will be easier to shortlist providers that offer solutions that fit those needs. Claromentis offers high-quality company intranet software services and can be a great option.
Get Recommendations from Other Businesses
You can start your search by asking for recommendations from other businesses, especially those in the same industry as yours. Ask them about their experience with their current provider and what they like and dislike about the solution. This will give you first-hand insights that you can use to further your search.
Consider the Total Cost of Ownership
The cost of an intranet solution varies depending on the features and size of the company. Make sure to consider all costs involved, such as set-up fees, monthly subscription fees, maintenance costs, etc when deciding. When choosing a provider, it is also important to factor in future costs such as upgrades and scalability.
Check out the User Interface
A user-friendly interface is important for employees to be able to use the intranet easily and efficiently. When evaluating providers, take time to try out the user interface yourself. See if it is easy to navigate and if it includes all the features you are looking for.
Consider Integration Capabilities
You will also want to consider a provider that offers integration capabilities with other software applications that your business uses. This will ensure that the intranet solution works seamlessly with other tools and systems, making it easier for employees to use.
Some important capabilities to look out for:
- Single sign-on (SSO) - employees should be able to access the intranet with their existing login credentials.
- Active Directory Integration - users should be able to access the intranet using their Active Directory login.
- Mobile Device Management (MDM) - the intranet should be accessible from mobile devices.
Look at the Provider’s Security Measures
Security should be a top priority when dealing with employee data and company information. Check what security measures are in place to protect your data. Find out what encryption is used and if there are any login requirements.
Evaluate the Provider’s Customer Support
Customer support is important, especially when you are just starting to use the intranet solution. Find out what kind of support the provider offers and how easy it is to get in touch with them. See if they offer 24/7 support or if they have a knowledge base that you can use to troubleshoot problems.
Check for References
When narrowing down your choices, don’t forget to ask for references from the providers. This will allow you to talk to other businesses using the same solution and get their feedback. Find out if they are satisfied with the intranet solution and if they would recommend it to other businesses.
Final Word
Choosing the right intranet provider is a crucial decision for any business. Keep these tips in mind to help you find a solution that suits your business needs.
