Intranets

3. How to Do It

If you have a typical small-business LAN (local area network), an intranet may require little extra investment.

3.1 You can build an intranet from scratch yourself (see 4).

• The technologies underlying an intranet are the same as those which power the web. This means you can build an intranet in the same way you build a website.
• You need a server to host the intranet. If your business does not already have a server, this could cost less than £1,000.

3.2 Use an off-the-shelf package (see 5).

• Many software firms offer intranet software which you can install onto your server.
• The cost could be as little as a few hundred pounds, or even free if you use open source software. The more functions and users you have, the higher the cost.
• It is generally easier to buy a package than to start from scratch, but costs are higher and flexibility may be more limited.

3.3 Use a hosted solution (see 6).

• With a hosted solution, you pay a company to host your intranet on their servers.
• You log in to the system to view and edit content and create the structure.
• Hosted solutions are charged monthly. You will pay from £15 a month, depending on features and storage space.

3.4 Pay an agency ().

• You can commission an agency to design and build your intranet from scratch.
• This can cost from £500 upwards.
• This is the best option if you need a highly customised intranet.