If you’ve been tasked with finding an intranet software and don’t know where to begin, you’re not alone. Most people don’t realize they need one until they have problems such as document management, streamlining policies and procedures, and a lack of effective internal communications.

The search tends to end with an exclamation of: “We need an intranet!”

Knowing the solution is only the first step, however. Let’s explore …

FYI: If you’re on the hunt for an intranet solution, meet IC Thrive’s Source intranet software.

Let’s start with the basics …

So, why do you need an intranet?

1. Distribute information effectively

Just as you use your website to market your company to customers, your intranet is a way to market your company to employees. An intranet standardizes company communications from one central location, also known as a single source of truth. This way, employees won’t search for information in various places anymore, they will know everything and anything they need to know sits on your single source of truth.

Resource: Establishing a single source of truth worksheet

2. Communicate company goals and initiatives

No matter the size of your organization, communication between departments on goals and initiatives can be challenging. Get on track by consistently sharing a strong company narrative across your intranet and broadcast task lists on dedicated department sites. Your employees will see their work, and the work of other departments, working together to achieve a one clear company goal.

3. Paperless policies and documents

Say goodbye to heaps of paper policies and welcome online policy and document management at your fingertips. Simply upload a policy or document and turn on “read and confirm” actions. Employees will be notified of a policy, and you will have proof of confirmations.

Also, if you need to update a policy, policy versioning allows employees to see only the latest and most up-to-date versions. No more confusion here!

4. Find useful information quickly

Searching for relevant documents may seem easy, but it can quickly escalate to a daunting task – especially if they’re saved on different computers and shared drives. Even when you can simply ask for something from the HR or IT manager, that email tends to get lost in the abyss of an overwhelming inbox.

This is where an intranet steps in. Simply upload information with a one-stop central knowledge-base. With intuitive search finding the information is as easy as uploading it.

5. Create and submit online forms easily

Automate business processes and eliminate redundant, manual business tasks by using online forms on your intranet software. Online Forms are built through drag-and-drop, user-friendly interface – no IT-experience required!

You can either build a form that suits your specific needs or copy existing online forms that come pre-built.

Resource: Learn how Amica cut down approval processes from six weeks to one day with automated workflows.

6. Standardize training and onboarding

Keep your employees informed and up-to-date on the latest policies and procedures. With simple onboarding, you can streamline new employees through a process that will enable them to get up-to-speed and more productive faster.

Then, track, manage and report on registrations and waitlists using the online training calendar. Easy for you and your new hire – win/win!

7. Enhance your company culture

As your single source of truth, your intranet reinforces your company’s culture and brand. Apply brand building tips by selecting a unique intranet name, and introduce fun features such as discussion forums, event calendars, and an online photo album.

As we said, your intranet is your internal website – market and promote your brand accordingly!

Resource: Tone of voice worksheet to create an employer brand

Extra resources

• Tips to master intranet metrics and KPIs
• Upgrade to Source 15.0 for our most powerful intranet search
• On-premise vs secure cloud intranet