Corporate Intranet

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.