What is an intranet? An intranet is a private internal network designed to facilitate communication and collaboration between employees. Only members of the organization can access it. It centralizes information and structures exchanges. It also integrates digital tools adapted to the specific needs of teams.
In this article, find out what an intranet is and its main functionalities. Discover the channels essential for maximizing its effectiveness: Viva Engage, SharePoint, and e-mail.
Intranet: definition and objectives
An intranet is a digital platform that enables organizations to bring together all useful resources in one place. Here are its main features:
- Centralized content: all documents, news and tools are accessible from a single interface.
- Simplified communication: it connects employees, regardless of their location, and encourages direct exchanges.
- Improved productivity: information is available in just a few clicks, reducing wasted time.
In short, the intranet is an essential tool for optimizing resource management and facilitating internal interaction.
What are the main intranet channels?
Viva Engage: the integrated corporate social network
Viva Engage, formerly Yammer, is a tool designed to encourage social interaction within companies. Integrated with Microsoft Teams, it’s perfect for creating a collaborative community.
Why choose Viva Engage for your intranet?
- Create discussion forums for teams or departments.
- Share important announcements with interactive tools.
- Reinforce cohesion by organizing virtual events or surveys.
Example: A company uses Viva Engage to run an engagement campaign around a new strategic project, gathering employee opinions via surveys.
SharePoint: the heart of document management
SharePoint, also developed by Microsoft, is the leading solution for organizing and sharing your digital resources. It provides a solid structure for managing all your company’s information.
Benefits of SharePoint for your intranet :
- Centralize all your documents with version management.
- Create personalized home pages for each department.
- Track resource usage with integrated analytical tools.
Example: An HR department can use SharePoint to host job descriptions, internal policies and administrative forms.
E-mails: an essential classic
Although more modern tools are available, e-mail remains essential for formal communications and personalized exchanges.
Limits and integration with the intranet :
- E-mail can lead to information overload.
- It’s essential to use it in conjunction with tools like Viva Engage to ensure balanced communication.
Why is a multi-channel intranet essential?
Integrating tools like Viva Engage, SharePoint and e-mail into your intranet lets you take full advantage of its functionality. Benefits include:
- Optimized communication: each channel meets a specific need (interactivity, document management, formal communication).
- Enhanced collaboration: tools are connected to facilitate teamwork, no matter where employees are located.
- Valuable analytical data: tools such as Communication Insights track the effectiveness of communications and improve engagement.
Case study: The impact of a well-designed intranet
An international company has integrated Viva Engage, SharePoint and an analysis tool like Communication Insights into its intranet. Results in 6 months:
- 30% increase in engagement on internal communications thanks to Viva Engage.
- 25% reduction in time spent searching for information via SharePoint.
- Improved employee satisfaction thanks to an optimized user experience.
Further information
Discover other articles to deepen your understanding of intranets:
- Why choose SharePoint to build your intranet ?
- Mastering Viva Engage: A Guide for Internal Communications
- Enhance your internal communication strategy thanks to data analysis
Conclusion
In conclusion, what is an intranet? It’s much more than just an internal network. It’s a multi-channel platform that integrates powerful tools like Viva Engage, SharePoint and e-mail to transform internal communication and collaboration.
Adopting a well-structured intranet is a strategic decision. It improves productivity, employee engagement, and overall company performance. Combining it with analytical tools enhances these benefits.