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'Digitize to survive' is a mantra often heard since Covid closed workplaces and forced business online. However, digital transformation is hardly a new idea. And while the pandemic has undoubtedly highlighted just how important it is to business growth, it's still poorly understood. Ask a random sample of business owners what digital transformation is, and most will say it's the latest tech, software tool, or app. But that's only part of the story. Our selection of need-to-know digital transformation statistics gives you the complete picture.

Explore what it means for organizations today and how digital transformation drives efficiencies and productivity while enhancing the customer experience.

Our comprehensive list is broken down into different categories, so you can dive straight into what's crucial for you. And we reference the top research from authoritative sources like McKinsey, Deloitte, and Gartner with the most up-to-date data.

Use our selection of stats to assess your digitization needs, develop an action plan and prepare for the future.

What Is Digital Transformation?

Digital transformation (DT or DX) means using technology to improve business processes, drive growth and improve the customer experience.

Various technologies come under the DX umbrella, including cloud, AI, machine learning, big data, and the internet of things.

The Importance Of Digital Transformation

Traditional markets and bricks-and-mortar workplaces no longer constrain organizations. Digital transformation has ushered in new ways of doing business virtually. Worldwide, companies are reimaging their operations from the ground up.

There's no doubt the pandemic has accelerated the DX trend. It's now the primary driving force for innovation and operational efficiencies. And it's not just big businesses and corporates that stand to gain. SMEs and sole traders are also jumping on the DX bandwagon.

So, investing in DX is a must if you want to outpace the competition and drive revenue growth.

Let's dig deeper into some of these themes with our comprehensive list of stats. Find out what others are doing and what you need to do to stay ahead.

Investment In Digital Transformation

This category highlights the massive growth in investment in digital transformation. Global DX spending is predicted to double over the next four years.

However, despite the increased budget, most IT spending is on maintenance. Investment in innovation appears to be lagging.

Worldwide Spend On Digital Transformation

1. According to the World Economic Forum, the societal and industrial value of DX could reach $100 trillion by 2025.

2. The IDC Worldwide Semiannual Digital Transformation Guide suggests DX spending between 2017 and 2022 will achieve a five-year compound annual growth rate of 16.7 percent.

How IT Budgets Are Spent

1. According to Deloitte, over 50 percent of the average IT department's budget is spent on maintenance. Only 19 percent is allocated to investment.

2. Research from Forrester shows a similar picture, with CIOs spending around 72 percent of IT budgets on existing IT issues and only 28 percent on innovations.

3. The 2021 Spiceworks Ziff Davis State of IT study found that updating IT infrastructure is the primary driver of IT budget increases. According to the survey, 56 percent of organizations plan to increase IT spending.

4. The Internet of Things accounted for the largest share of the overall digital transformation market in 2019. However, AR/VR technology is forecast to have the fastest growth rate until 2025.

Key Takeaways

As spending on DX continues to increase steeply, organizations may need to reassess how the money is spent. Striking the right balance between maintenance and innovation will be a juggling act and an ongoing challenge. Technology will continue to evolve - that's a given, so there's no standing still.

Who Manages Digital Transformation?

The research shows that C-suite executives are the driving force behind DX. In particular, the CEO is pivotal to successful digital transformation. However, IT decision-makers are also at the forefront and are vital to success.

1. CEOs are driving the development of a workplace transformation roadmap in 45 percent of organizations and contribute to its development in 63 percent of companies.

2. According to research from MuleSoft, 97 percent of IT decision-makers are involved in DT projects.

3. Successful digital transformation is 6 times more likely in organizations with an engaged Chief Digital Officer.

4. HR is the principal owner in businesses with the most mature wellbeing strategies.

Key Takeaways

Senior executives and IT decision-makers must shape the DT strategy and lead from the front to achieve success.

Digital Transformation Statistics Current Status

Digital transformation is happening at pace across the globe. The vast majority of organizations have some DX initiatives in place, and the pandemic has fuelled the change. The industries leading the way are services, finance, and healthcare.

However, resistance to change and internal competition hinder progress in some businesses.

1. Over 90 percent of organizations have some form of digital initiative.

2. Just 23 percent of businesses have no dependency on digital operations or products.

3. According to Forrester, 15 percent of surveyed companies have prioritized DT.

4. Gartner reports DT is an organizational priority for 87 percent of senior executives.

5. Digitization is now a matter of business survival, say 27 percent of managers.

6. In 70 percent of surveyed organizations, the top priority is using tech to simplify workflows and manual processes.

7. At 57 percent, most organizations believe DT will have more impact on workplace transformation than physical (38 percent) and cultural (15 percent) elements.

8. At 60 percent, five times the number of North American enterprises today rely on online cloud platforms than five years ago.

9. Forrester reports that 21 percent of companies believe they have finished their digital transformation.

10. Fewer than 1 percent of surveyed business executives said their organizations had yet to start on cloud computing and legacy modernization.

11. When it comes to digital-first strategies, the leading industries are services (95 percent), financial services (93 percent), and healthcare (92 percent).

Reasons for DX Failure

1. McKinsey reports that 70 percent of digital transformations fail due to employee resistance.

2. For 28 percent of companies, digital transformation is seen as a cost center, and 29 percent say there's an absence of data to prove ROI. Resistance to change (26 percent) and compliance or legal concerns (26 percent) also get in the way of progress.

3. Seventy-five percent of executives say that their business functions compete instead of collaborating on digital projects. Consequently, 64 percent are not seeing an uptick in revenue growth from digital investment.

Key Takeaways

DX is already a reality for most organizations. And it's a primary driver for improved efficiencies and enhanced customer satisfaction. However, internal resistance to change is the main reason for failure. This underscores the importance of taking your people along on the DX journey.

Digital Transformation Statistics: Driving Forces

The pandemic has accelerated the growth of DX worldwide. Improved communication and collaboration are primary driving forces, particularly in the context of hybrid and remote working. However, increased efficiencies and streamlined business processes are also top DX priorities.

And specific industries have their own priorities. AI and mobile-first technologies are crucial for banking and financial services. And for retail, DX investment is likely to focus on improved competitiveness and stronger customer relationships.

1. Chatbots and virtual assistants are preferred over human sellers by over 30 percent of B2B tech buyers.

2. Workers with data science skills are preferred by 69 percent of employers.

3. To boost productivity, 55 percent of companies adopt workplace transformation solutions.

4. Workers in companies with technology that supports them at work are 230 percent more engaged and 85 percent more likely to stay for longer than three years.

5. When it comes to drivers of employee efficiency, 74 percent cited communication tools, and 74 percent mentioned collaboration platforms.

6. Jabra estimates communication systems assist in retaining top talent by as much as 4.5 times.

7. A fully operational communication system helps organizations retain top talent by up to 450 percent.

8. Connected workplaces reduce spending on corporate real estate by up to 40 percent.

9. In an Accenture survey, 76 percent of managers agreed that companies need to bring people and technology together with more emphasis on the human side.

DT And Workplace Collaboration

1. According to Forrester, 65 percent of surveyed companies encourage collaboration between the business, and analytics and data science teams.

2. At 85 percent, most collaboration software users identify as being happy.

3. At 56 percent, most companies use online collaboration platforms and social media for employee communication.

4. Staff in collaborative workplaces are more than 50 percent more effective at getting daily tasks done than independent workers.

5. Collaboration and teamwork improve company sales by 27 percent, product quality by 34 percent, and product development by 30 percent.

6. At 83 percent, most workers rely on technology for collaboration with colleagues.

7. Digital workplaces and online collaboration support increased productivity by as much as 30 percent.

8. Collaboration and teamwork were identified as being very important by 75 percent of workers.

Impact Of Covid Pandemic On DX

1. Over three-quarters of businesses are planning long-term changes to IT in response to Covid.

2. In Gartner's Digital Workplace Survey, 68 percent of participants agreed that more senior executives have become involved in the digital workplace since Covid.

3. Covid has accelerated digital transformation in the workplace by five to ten years.

4. Nearly three-quarters of surveyed workers want to work from home more often once restrictions allow.

5. According to Microsoft, 62 percent felt more empathy for co-workers now that they have a better view of home working.

6. In May 2020, at the onset of Covid, there was a 176 percent increase in the installation of collaboration apps on enterprise devices.

7. Most businesses (67 percent) have at least part of their collaboration apps in the cloud, and one-third have all their online collaboration cloud-based.

8. By April 2020, 67 percent of organizations had increased spending on web conferencing software.

DX And Financial Services

1. Between 2009 and 2029, the percentage of EU citizens using online banking increased two-fold.

2. Ninety-four percent of online banking customers use their online accounts at least once a month.

3. Global financial executives put enhancing customer experience as the top priority for DX, 76 percent identify investing in customers, and 16 percent prioritize productivity and reducing operational costs.

4. Juniper Research estimates that by 2023, chatbots will save banks $7.3 million on annual customer service budgets.

5. The number of online and mobile bank users is predicted to be around 6 billion by 2024.

DT And The Building Industry

BIM (Building Information Modelling) will strongly impact the facilities management industry, according to 74 percent of facilities management firms. And 83 percent believe that BIM is already doing so and that this will continue for the next five years.

Digital Transformation Statistics For Retail

Fujitsu reports that in retail, the key drivers for digital transformation include: improved competitiveness (70 percent), reduced costs and increase in efficiencies (69 percent), stronger customer relationships (69 percent), improved revenue (67 percent), enhanced employee satisfaction (60 percent) and transformed businesses processes (53 percent).

Key Takeaways

This category of digital transformation statistics illustrates the main driving forces behind DX. Not surprisingly, the pandemic tops the list. Hybrid and fully remote working have thrust online communication and collaboration to the forefront. However, different industries also have their own agendas for DX. Improved efficiencies, increased competitiveness, and the customer experience are common priorities.

Digital Transformation Statistics: Challenges

Access to technology is still a challenge for many Americans. High-speed broadband is not universal, and some employees lack the necessary skills and knowledge for DX. When it comes to successful DX, the employee digital skills gap is probably the biggest challenge facing companies.

1. One employee survey found that at 35 percent, the most common barrier to digital transformation was the CEO. However, organizations with an on-side Chief Digital Officer were 1.6 times more likely to achieve a successful digital transformation.

2. According to the US Federal Communication Commission, 21.3 million Americans had no access to wired or wireless broadband internet in 2019. However, BroadbandNow estimates that the number without high-speed internet is now twice that.

3. And after 12 months of home working, according to Microsoft, 42 percent say they lack vital office supplies at home, and the internet connection for 1 in 10 employees is not good enough to get their work done.

4. Pew Research found that 50 percent of the elderly reported a lack of knowledge and one-third a lack of confidence in using devices.

5. In research from Deloitte, 53 percent of organizations reported that a significant chunk of the workforce needs to update their skills and capabilities in response to digital progress.

6. A survey by Ponemon found that 82 percent of IT security and C-suite executives had at least one data breach attributable to digital transformation.

The Employee Digital Skills Gap

1. In the Global Digital Skills Index, nearly 75 percent of workers do not feel equipped to learn the digital skills needed now, and at 76 percent, even more feel unequipped for the future.

2. Salesforce and RAND Europe report that the digital skills gap disrupts business growth. According to the research, 14 of the G20 countries may miss out on $1.5 trillion in aggregate GDP growth.

3. Over half of respondents to the Global Digital Skills Index want to upskill to help them climb the career ladder.

4. Sixty percent of worldwide survey participants say skills in collaboration technology are most needed in businesses today. However, only 25 percent rated their collaboration technology skills as advanced.

5. Almost half of participants in the Global Digital Skills Index see digital sustainability skills as important now or in the next five years. But only 25 percent say they have the advanced digital skills to promote sustainable business activities.

6. Both the World Economic Forum and McKinsey report that organizations will have increasing skills gaps with employers now looking for workers with critical thinking, analytical and problem-solving abilities, plus adaptability, resilience, and self-management. McKinsey's survey found that 89 percent of global companies currently have or expect to have a skills gap.

Key Takeaways

Access to high-speed broadband remains an issue for many. And as hybrid working is forecast to grow, this could become a much bigger issue.

Furthermore, addressing the employee digital skills gap should be a top priority for DT strategies. The digital transformation statistics in this section echo the need for a human-centric approach to transformation.

Digital Transformation's Impact on Employees

Aside from the digital skills gap, DX is impacting employees in other ways. Workers have problems with overload, distractions, and access to the right technology and tools.

Furthermore, employee engagement rates remain relatively low nationwide despite the real benefits to productivity and revenue.

The pandemic has highlighted the importance of employee wellbeing. And with the Great Resignation in full swing, employee retention is also a hot issue.

1. According to Infosys Digital Radar 2022, technology adoption has grown exponentially since the pandemic, setting a new minimum standard for businesses. However, those getting the most out of technology have emphasized the human element.

2. ScienceDirect identifies five technology-related pressure points on employees: overload, distractions and interruptions, invasion into life outside work, monitoring, and the pace of digital work.

3. Only 30 percent of workers in research from Qualtrics say their experience with company technology exceeded their expectations.

4. In a survey of business owners and employees, 86 percent attributed workplace issues to poor or inadequate communication tools.

5. When it comes to distractions using online collaboration tools, 41 percent are down to personal conversations, and 39 percent are caused by requests taking staff off-task.

6. Forty percent of workers believe organizations should have stricter rules around using online collaboration tools in the workplace.

Employee Engagement

1. Only 21 percent of employees are engaged at work, according to Gallup's State of the Global Workplace report 2022.

2. Gallup's meta-analysis found that organizations scoring the highest on employee engagement were 21 percent more profitable than those with low engagement scores. Businesses with highly engaged workforces were also 17 percent more productive.

3. Companies with a robust corporate culture have more than four times higher revenue growth.

4. Think With Google reported a 9 percent increase in Google searches related to team building in 2020.

Employee Wellbeing

1. In the Global Human Capital Trends survey, 95 percent of HR executives agree that employee burnout impacts retention.

2. Research from Limeade and Quantum Workplace suggests that workers with higher levels of wellbeing are more likely to be engaged at work, enjoy their jobs, and recommend their employer.

Employee Retention

1. Over 63 percent of surveyed businesses with 50-500 employees say that retaining workers is harder than recruiting them.

2. FlexJobs reports that 79 percent of workers would be more loyal to companies offering flexible work options.

3. According to Owl Labs, US employers with the option to work from home reduce employee turnover by 25 percent.

4. Workers with managers who act on their feedback are four times more likely to stay with the company.

Key Takeaways

The impact of DX on your people is significant. The flow-on effects are far-reaching, stretching into engagement, wellbeing, productivity, and retention. Success hinges on getting the workforce on board.

Impact of DX On The Customer Experience

Enhancing the customer experience is a huge impetus for DX. Companies are investing heavily to bring about improvements. However, digital transformation initiatives are not always driven by informed customer research and often don't meet customers' expectations.

1. Forrester predicts that customer interactions through digital platforms will increase by 40 percent.

2. Over 70 percent of B2B organizations' digital experiences do not meet customers' needs or expectations.

3. In 2022, business spending on customer experience is expected to reach $641 billion.

4. reports that 40 percent of consumers end up on a competitor's website if they have difficulty accessing a business's mobile site.

5. Most customer-centric organizations (84 percent) emphasize the mobile customer experience.

6. Up to 74 percent of business buyers are willing to pay more for a better B2B experience.

7. Current DX efforts are focused on modernizing customer touchpoints (54 percent) and enabling infrastructure (45 percent). However, 41 percent of organizations invest in digital transformation without thorough customer research.

Key Takeaways

We can see from this selection of digital transformation statistics that DX is crucial to the customer experience. Nowadays, consumers have high expectations and will swiftly turn to the competition if they are not satisfied. However, businesses must ensure their DX initiatives are informed and aligned to customer research.

Digital Transformation Statistics For Remote Work

Remote work is here to stay. It offers employees a better work-life balance, and many would quit their jobs if forced to return to the office full-time.

And there are plenty of benefits for employers, including reduced central overheads and improved productivity.

However, remote work has its challenges. And DX initiatives will need to address communication issues and the need for human connection.

1. According to Forrester, remote work is now the norm and will rise by 300 percent compared to pre-Covid levels.

2. Global Workplace Analytics reports a 173 percent increase in remote working from 2005 to 2018.

3. Up to 16 percent of global businesses are now fully remote.

4. Deloitte reports that nearly 75 percent of workers prefer a balance of working remotely and in the office.

5. And 66 percent of global employers in Microsoft's Work Trend Index are designing workplaces for hybrid arrangements.

6. TECLA reports that 85 percent of managers believe teams with some remote workers will become standard.

7. According to Owl Labs, small businesses are twice as likely to hire full-time remote employees.

Benefits Of Remote Work

1. According to FlexJobs, reasons for remote workers feeling more productive include the following: fewer interruptions - 68 percent, quieter working environment - 68 percent, more comfortable setup - 66 percent, better able to focus - 63 percent, no office politics - 55 percent.

2. The EPA says that 86 percent of commuters drive to work.

3. The majority (77 percent) of remote workers say working from home has increased their productivity.

4. According to Global Workplace Analytics, organizations save on average $11,000 per year for each half-time remote worker.

Remote Work And Employee Preferences

1. HR consultants Robert Half's survey found that 60 percent of staff who shifted to remote have a better work-life balance without the daily commute.

2. Microsoft report that 52 percent of survey respondents feel more valued and included in remote meetings as everyone is in the same online room.

3. However, the same survey shows that 60 percent of people feel less connected to their colleagues since moving to remote.

4. In research from Qualtrics, 35 percent of workers would look for a new job if forced to return full-time to the office.

5. When it comes to flexible working, 69 percent of millennials will swap certain work benefits for a more flexible working environment.

6. According to Owl Labs, 32 percent would quit their job if they could not continue working from home.

Challenges Of Working From Home

1. According to Microsoft's Remote Work Trend Report, weekend working has increased. Teams' chats on Saturdays and Sundays have risen by 200 percent. Furthermore, workday Teams' chats between 8-9 am and 6-8 pm have increased by 15 percent and 23 percent, respectively.

2. Gensler reports that 50 percent of Gen Z and Millennials are distracted when working from home.

3. Communication is an obstacle for 20 percent of remote workers.

4. According to Microsoft's Work Trend Index, companies do not contribute to remote work expenses for 46 percent of employees.

5. reports that 20 percent of remote employees sometimes feel lonely working from home and say they miss a sense of belonging.

6. A survey from OpenVPN found that 54 percent of IT professionals think home working is a greater security risk.

Key Takeaways

Remote and flexible working is the preference for most employees and many employers. However, it also presents challenges for the workforce, which your DX strategy will need to consider. Distractions, loneliness, and a feeling of disconnection are very real issues. And the pressure to be always available is impacting employees' sense of work-life balance.

The Future Of Digital Transformation And Trends

Investment in DX is expected to grow as flexible, hybrid working continues, and online markets take over from traditional storefronts.

Internet-based collaboration tools and AI-powered platforms are on the rise as the employee experience increasingly merges with the customer experience.

1. According to IDG, digital transformation accounts for 40 percent of all technology spending.

2. Post-Covid, 72 percent of organizations expect to have fewer in-person meetings.

3. According to Microsoft, post-pandemic, 82 percent of managers expect more flexible and home working. And 71 percent of workers and managers want to continue with some remote work.

4. Gartner reports that by 2025, 50 percent of enterprise virtual events will be held on the company's video meeting platform daily.

5. Upwork predicts that by 2028, 73 percent of teams will have remote workers.

6. Millennials will make up 75 percent of the global workforce by 2025, with implications for corporate culture, collaboration, and communication.

Tech Sectors On The Rise

1. According to , 60 percent of G2000 companies will use AI or MI-enabled platforms to support the employee lifecycle, from onboarding to retirement.

2. IDC forecasts that by 2023, 70 percent of employees in task-based jobs will use intelligence within digital workspaces to engage with clients or colleagues from anywhere and to drive productivity.

3. Forrester predicts human-centered tech will drive competitive advantage and a 3-5 percent increase in productivity by connecting the customer experience with the employee experience.

4. The Bureau of Labour Statistics predicts employment in IT will increase by 13 percent from 2020 to 2030. This is faster than the average for all other occupations.

5. Globally, the online collaboration market is set to increase to $13.5 billion in 2024, compared to $12.4 billion in 2019.

6. By 2023, AR and VR in corporate training are expected to total $2.8 billion.

7. The worldwide data analytics outsourcing market is predicted to reach $20.68 billion by 2026.

8. The global drone market will be worth $63.3 billion by 2025.

9. reports that by 2024, the 3D printing market will reach over $35 billion in revenue. That's an average annual growth rate of more than 25 percent.

10. IDC predicts that by 2025, 90 percent of new enterprise apps will use AI-powered technology in products and processes.

Key Takeaways

Hybrid and remote working will continue to drive DX projects. Virtual platforms look set to take over from in-person meetings and events. And online collaboration and communication remain top DT priorities.

However, technologies to watch for the future include AI and chatbots, AR, VR, and 3D printing.

Digital Transformation Statistics: What You Need To Know

The evidence is overwhelming: there's no stopping digital transformation. The pandemic has simply revved up and accelerated the process. From remote working to e-commerce, the changes brought about by Covid will be felt long after the health crisis is over.

However, investing in new technologies like AI or business intelligence is only part of the recipe for success. A common theme throughout the data is the need for businesses to also invest in their people. Without a digitally prepared and educated workforce, DX will likely be more about stagnation than transformation.

This comprehensive selection of statistics will help you identify the DX priorities in your business. Use the data to work up your digital business strategy and beef up an existing one. Fail to do so, and you run the risk of being left behind.

Digital Transformation Statistics [Infographic]

Digital transformation is already a reality for most businesses. Perhaps you're updating your current DX strategy and want confirmation you're on track.

If you are facing challenges with digital transformation, MyHub's cloud-based intranets could be part of the solution. Find out more with a free demo or no-obligation 14-day trial.

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145 Digital Transformation Statistics You Need To Know In 2022 [INFOGRAPHIC]

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'Digitize to survive' is a mantra often heard since Covid closed workplaces and forced business online. However, digital transformation is hardly a new idea. And while the pandemic has undoubtedly highlighted just how important it is to business growth, it's still poorly understood.

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When the lights went out in workplaces worldwide in 2020, no one anticipated the dramatic impact on how we work. However, there's no doubt remote work is here to stay. What started as an emergency measure during the COVID-19 pandemic has become mainstream. Three years down the track, fully remote and hybrid work is standard practice.

If you want to understand remote work trends, you have landed on the right page. We have crunched the numbers and pulled together the latest data. Our comprehensive selection of key remote work statistics will help you get a handle on what's important.

Remote Jobs: The Current State Of Play

According to the latest data, 8 in 10 employees work remotely or in hybrid work models. Moreover, workers report they love remote work and a better work-life balance. So much so that the majority would leave their current job if required to work fully onsite.

Who Works Remotely?

Thanks to technology, the number and variety of remote jobs have exploded. And it's not just computer and mathematical occupations. Increasingly, professionals expect remote work opportunities. The likes of lawyers, education, and healthcare professionals are swelling the ranks of remote workers. There are now a wealth of career opportunities for job seekers who want a better work-life balance.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Remote Work Arrangements

Benefits For Remote Workers

When it comes to advantages, there are plenty of pluses for remote workers. Top of the list is better work-life balance. Less time spent commuting means more time for friends, family, and leisure interests. And unlike in-office employees, fully remote ones spend less money. No more deli-bought lunches and laundry expenses, not to mention gas or transport costs. Furthermore, remote work employees report feeling less stressed and have a renewed energy for their jobs. No doubt, avoiding office politics also plays a part!

Disadvantages For Remote Workers

While some global workers report improvements in their mental health, others have a different experience. Loneliness and isolation can combine to impact their mental health negatively. Many fully remote staff find it hard to resist the lure of housework or Netflix. For them, more distractions make it hard to stay focused, impacting employee productivity. And when the lines between home and work are blurred, switching off at night is more challenging.

Benefits For Companies

It's not just staff that stand to gain. There's also plenty for company leaders to love. Fully remote and hybrid workers are good news for businesses, from increased productivity and reduced overheads to savings on office equipment. And with a better work-life balance, fewer employees suffer from burnout and mental health issues. It also means the talent pool is widened as companies are now unrestricted by location.

Furthermore, taking more commuters off the roads reduces greenhouse gas emissions, making it a win-win for everyone.

Disadvantages For Companies

Communication, collaboration, and managing off-site workers are more complex than in-office counterparts. However, effective company leaders plan to mitigate potential issues with robust processes, procedures, and tools.

How To Be Successful With Remote Work

Get The Right Tech Stack

It all starts with technology. A remote employee needs the right digital tools to communicate, collaborate, and get stuff done. Must-haves include business IM, cloud storage, video conferencing apps, and online collaboration tools.

Home Office Setup

Also, it's essential to have a home office space. If a physical office isn't an option, then the next best thing is a quiet corner or a co-working arrangement. However, many staff prefer to take their laptops to a favorite café or even the beach. And who can blame them?

Manage Time And Productivity

Routine is vital for effective flexible work. Setting hours, regular breaks, to-do lists, and check-ins with colleagues will increase worker productivity and time management. While fresh air, exercise, and maintaining social relationships will help remote employees manage their mental health.

Remote Work Trends Statistics

This section of stats confirms how mainstream remote work has become. Even though the worst of the pandemic has now passed, most organizations continue to embrace flexible work. A wholesale return to the office seems unlikely as employers and employees recognize the benefits.

As these stats demonstrate, and with 36.2 million Americans set to be fully remote by 2025, the future of remote work looks bright.

Remote Work by Country Statistics

Remote working is now a worldwide trend, as this selection of stats confirms. Furthermore, the hybrid work model, with a mix of work fully on-site and remote, has gained traction over the past few years.

These ten remote work statistics reveal just how popular this trend has become worldwide. Companies understand how beneficial having a hybrid on-site/remote workforce is when it comes to attracting top talent and creating a strong organizational culture.

Benefits Of Remote Work Statistics

We touched on the benefits earlier, but here are the stats to back it up. It's clear the labor force values flexibility and improved work-life balance. And for organizations, the increased productivity, plus happier and healthier staff, make it a no-brainer.

These stats confirm that a remote or hybrid work arrangement offers a ton of benefits for employees and employers. Enhanced job satisfaction and productivity mean it's a win-win.

Remote Working And Remote Work Statistics

One undeniable remote work trend is employees love it! They feel happier, more creative, and satisfied than those in the office full-time.

Now that the pandemic's emergency measures have ended, businesses need to examine how they can satisfy workers' clear preference for remote work.

Managing A Remote Team Tips

By now, every manager knows that leading a remote or hybrid team has its challenges. This selection of stats offers some insights and tips to help get it right.

As the stats reveal, top tips for managing remote or hybrid teams include effective onboarding, good communication, and having the right digital tools.

Latest Statistics On Flexible Hybrid Work

For many organizations, hybrid working offers the best of both worlds. It satisfies workers' preferences and lifestyles while also meeting operational demands. This selection provides insights into how businesses are responding.

A shift to hybrid working is the perfect solution for many, satisfying the needs of employers and employees.

COVID-19 Remote Work Statistics

This section details how remote work has changed in response to COVID-19. Organizations were forced to shut up shop in 2020. However, few have returned to the office full-time since restrictions eased.

The clear message from this section is that remote work options are here to stay.

Remote Work Effects On Company Culture Statistics

The following selection of stats demonstrates remote work's impact on company culture. And it's good news. Productivity, performance, and collaboration are improved. And employee engagement is boosted with an increase in morale.

When it comes to company culture, the effects are wide-reaching and impactful, according to the statistics.

Remote Work Statistics Case Studies

Check out this section for a more in-depth look at how companies are responding. The following case studies examine the impact on customers, recruitment, retention, collaboration, and much more.

The Future Of Remote Work Prediction Statistics

So, what's the future for remote work? The selection will help you understand the driving forces.

1. According to a survey conducted by Gartner in late 2020, 84% of companies surveyed plan on making their recent shift to remote work permanent (Gartner).

2. Furthermore, 25% of those companies stated that they would be making at least 5% of their workforce permanently remote. This trend is likely due to an increasing number of employees wanting flexible work arrangements to balance their personal and professional lives (Garner).

3. A survey conducted by Upwork in 2021 revealed that 65% of hiring managers believed that remote work would become increasingly popular over the next decade (Upwork).

4. This belief was echoed by 77% of workers who reported that they expected more job opportunities with flexible hours and locations available in the future (Upwork).

5. Additionally, 56% of respondents reported that they wanted more flexible options than their current jobs provided (Upwork).

6. Statista also released a report predicting that 43% of employed people worldwide were expected to be working remotely by 2028. This is an increase from just 3% in 2016 - an indicator that more employers will embrace telecommuting as a viable option for their employees as technology continues to improve and make collaboration easier (Statista).

Use these statistics to help your organization plan and prepare for the future.

Better Work-Life Balance

The ability to juggle personal demands is a top priority for today's labor force. Check out this section to find out just how vital it is.

1. According to research by Buffer, 83% of people believe that working remotely leads to a healthier work-life balance (Buffer).

2. That same study also found that 75% of remote workers feel they can manage their workloads more effectively when working remotely, compared to only 58% of those who do not work remotely (Buffer).

3. The Global Workplace Analytics website also has some compelling data about remote work. They report that 83% of employees would like to have the option to telecommute at least part of the time. And 76% would be willing to take a pay cut in exchange for flexible hours or the ability to telecommute full-time. In addition, they report that people who regularly telecommute are more productive than those who don't, with an output increase of 13% (GWA).

4. A 2018 study by Owl Labs found that two-thirds (66%) of employees said they would switch jobs if it meant they could work remotely full-time, while 87% of employers said they would offer more flexibility if it meant attracting better talent. According to this same study, when employees had the opportunity to switch from an office environment to a fully remote job, 73% reported feeling happier at their new job than they did while in the office environment (Owl Labs).

The data is compelling, which means companies must find ways to achieve a better work-life balance for staff.

Remote Work Statistics Takeaways

According to a study by Global Workplace Analytics and FlexJobs, there has been a 159% increase in remote workers since 2005. That's a jump from 1.8 million employees in 2005 to 4.7 million employees in 2017. This trend is expected to continue, with a prediction that by 2028, 73% of all departments will have remote workers. In addition, according to a survey done by Upwork and Freelancers Union, 36% of Americans are freelancing and 70% of those freelancers did not plan on doing so before 2020.

Furthermore, according to an analysis conducted by LinkedIn, between February and April 2020 alone, job postings for remote positions increased by over 30%. This includes roles such as Software Engineers (up 33%), Data Scientists (up 38%), Product Managers (up 43%) and Business Analysts (up 47%). These numbers suggest that employers are increasingly looking towards hiring candidates who are open to working remotely or from home.

The statistics paint a clear picture, remote work is rising in popularity and is here to stay. Companies should now start making plans for how they can embrace new ways of working effectively and efficiently. And if they haven't already done so, they should start considering how they can make their workforce more flexible by offering some form of remote work opportunities for their employees going forward.

All in all, these statistics indicate that the future of work will be significantly different from what it was pre-COVID-19. And it's up to us as individuals and companies alike to adapt accordingly.

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When the lights went out in workplaces worldwide in 2020, no one anticipated the dramatic impact on how we work. However, there's no doubt remote work is here to stay. What started as an emergency measure during the COVID-19 pandemic has become mainstream. Three years down the track, fully remote and hybrid work is standard practice.

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Whether you work in a fast-food outlet or as an executive in a multinational, chances are you will encounter organizational politics. This issue often gets a bad rap. Most of us automatically think of backstabbing, brown-nosing and self-serving schmoozing. We can all recount tales of bootlickers being leapfrogged for promotion or colleagues taking credit for the work of others.

Another example is alliances of staff pushing through unpopular internal restructures. And what about employees who sabotage the work of others. Sounds familiar, right?

Indeed, research confirms there seems to be no escape from office politics. For example, Business News Daily reports on one survey where 55 percent of workers said they got involved in organizational politics to some extent. And 76 percent of respondents said office politics affected their ability to get ahead.

But if organizational politics are an inevitable part of the workplace, do they always have to be a destructive distraction? Or can there be some positives?

What matters is how you handle the office politics that undoubtedly exist in your company.

In this post, we take you through all you need to know about organizational politics. We will look at definitions and the reasons behind workplace politics and the potential for destruction. And we will also show you how to manage workplace politics and turn it into a more positive influence.

Definition Of Organizational Politics

Merriam-Webster defines office politics as follows and tellingly includes the by-line 'often disapproving':
The activities, attitudes, or behaviors that are used to get or keep power or an advantage within a business or company.
Harvard Business Review's definition of organizational politics is more measured as follows:
Organizational politics refers to a variety of activities associated with the use of influence tactics to improve personal or organizational interests.
Organizational Politics: Good Or Bad For Business?

Organizational politics can indeed be a destructive force within businesses. It can easily distract employees from the job at hand and lead to resentment and low team morale. A decrease in job performance and productivity are usually the inevitable consequence. And business leaders often waste lots of time managing office politics.

However, as HBR hints, it's not all bad. Internal politicking used effectively can assist in finding compromises to tricky workplace situations and problems. It can also help in executing a strategy. Plus, office politics can be a valuable tool to effect organizational change.

Reasons For Organizational Politics

So, what are the causes of office politics? Before you can work out how to manage organizational politics, it's essential to understand the reasons why it occurs.

The bottom line is that some individuals in the workplace have more authority and power than others. It's an unequal playing field that is ripe for politicking.

Furthermore, some people are naturally more politically savvy than others. And they are not afraid to use these skills to their advantage as a means of getting ahead of others.

Competition for scarce resources is often at the heart of office politics. Whether it's time, budget, or supplies, this competition makes corporate politics inevitable.

Aside from these general reasons are more specific situations that often stoke the fires of workplace politics. Here's a selection of the most common underlying causes.

Power Struggles

Internal power struggles are perhaps the number one reason behind organizational politics. Some employees will indulge in office politics to get ahead and prove their worth. Often, it's at the expense of others. Sabotage, fault-finding, or playing the blame game are the resulting behaviors.

Inability To Adjust To Change

Change is an inevitable part of every business. However, some of us are better than others at adjusting and adapting to change. And when there are winners and losers involved, then resentments can boil over into workplace politics.

Lack Of Clarity

Often misunderstanding and a lack of clarity generate organizational politics. When there's ambiguity, the rumor mill kicks in with full force. Accusations, incorrect assumptions, and feelings of unfairness lead to office politics.

Jealousies

Perceptions of favoritism, schmoozing, underappreciation, and power imbalances make for a toxic cocktail. And it often results in manipulation, maneuvering, and infighting through office politics.

Lack Of Trust

Whether it's between colleagues or directed at management, a lack of trust is a powerful driving force for organizational politics.

Reward Systems

Many companies offer some form of reward system to encourage employees to go the extra mile. It could be a promotion, bonus or a company car. However, it can backfire if competition becomes unhealthy. Some workers may indulge in organizational politics to ensure they get the reward rather than a colleague.

Strategies For Managing Organizational Politics

Worried that workplace politics in your business may have gone into overdrive? The good news is there are steps you can take. So, if organizational politics have tipped over into being destructive rather than constructive, use these strategies to redress the balance.

1. Reduce Uncertainty In The Workplace

As we have seen, a lack of clarity and access to information is a major cause of organizational politics. Reducing uncertainty in the workplace will help you meet this problem head-on.

Ensure every employee has equal access to information. The company intranet is the perfect place to start. As a central hub for all corporate data, policies, news, and updates, the intranet levels the information playing field.

2. Promote Collaborative Working

Tackle problems of mistrust, petty jealousies, and departmental silos with collaborative working. Cross-team collaboration increases understanding and promotes better personal relationships between workers. And with competition for internal resources a key driver in organizational politics, collaboration helps soften any unhealthy competitive tendencies.

3. Keep Your Ear To The Ground

Just as politicians need to keep in touch with voters, managers need to stay in tune with employees. What's the prevailing mood among your staff? One way to find out is in regular one-to-one meetings. Check in with your team members on morale or any concerns. And have an open-door policy so that staff feel able to come to you with issues. In addition, develop a wide network of strong relationships within the business, so you have access to a variety of opinions.

Another way to check in with staff is via a survey. An annual employee engagement survey will help you track trends and opinions over time. However, a pulse survey is more effective in this context. Short, sharp and snappy, pulse surveys give you quick feedback. And they will help you to nip any problems in the bud.

And be sure to keep the pulse survey anonymous. That way, employees can give you honest feedback without fear of repercussions.

4. Be A Good Role Model

Employees get a lot of their behavioral cues from management. They learn about company culture and acceptable behaviors from the top. And so it's critical, managers are good role models for staff.

As a manager, try not to indulge in workplace politics yourself. Instead, display a positive attitude, avoid office gossip, and never criticize employees' work in front of others. Instead, promote teamwork and collaboration as an antidote to negative office politics.

5. Be Transparent

Transparency is another crucial tool to head off workplace politics. For example, if you do have reward systems in place, be open and transparent about the criteria. Clarity and openness will go a long way to diffusing the misconceptions that fuel office politics.

Plus, be sure to delegate tasks and responsibilities based on experience and expertise. Not only will this lead to greater job satisfaction for workers, but it will eliminate any excuse to indulge in organizational politics.

6. Don't Have Favorites

Every manager wants to ensure top-performing workers are recognized. It makes sense for the organization to retain its best people. However, this should not be done at the expense of others as it will only spur resentment.

In the workplace, perceptions matter. If you pull up one staff member for being late to a meeting, then you cannot ignore similar behavior in your closest ally. And if you allow your deputy to work from home, then you should give others the same opportunity. Giving preferential treatment to some and not others can easily backfire.

7. Zero Tolerance Of Destructive Organizational Politics

Have a zero-tolerance policy for all destructive workplace politics. Make it clear that behaviors such as backstabbing, sabotage, and lobbying are not tolerated or rewarded. Furthermore, unfair practices such as favoritism and preferential treatment are also off-limits.

8. Intervene When Necessary

Finally, don't be afraid to step in if required. However, carefully pick your battles. You don't want to get involved in every minor squabble. But sometimes intervention is the only solution as turning a blind eye can easily see the situation run away from you.

It may be that one person is the source of friction. Or perhaps there's a widespread feeling of discontent that's fueling workplace politics. Hold a meeting with the individual or gather all parties together to resolve the underlying cause.

Organizational Politics Meetings

Here are some tips to help you prepare for meetings to manage office politics.

Listen Attentively

Attentive listening is a valuable technique as it leads to understanding. If the other party feels that you understand where they are coming from, they will be less defensive. And they will be more open to understanding you in return. Open communications will help you arrive at a solution that's acceptable to all parties.

Focus On The Organization's Priorities

When approaching any sort of conflict in the workplace, be guided by the organization's priorities. What is it that you are trying to achieve as a business? When feelings are running high, the objectivity of company goals can help diffuse conflict. And it provides a common framework for finding solutions.

Don't Take Sides

If two or more individuals are involved, then maintain impartiality. Don't get drawn into taking sides. Instead, introduce some objectivity by focusing on organizational goals and objectives. That way, you will channel the negativity in a more positive, objective direction.

Look For Win-win Solutions

Conflicts of interest are usually at the heart of organizational politics. When seeking solutions, the most effective and enduring are those that include wins for all parties. Rather than one side coming away with the perception of being a loser, seek a resolution that benefits all parties. That way, everyone will feel positive and can commit to making it happen.

Organizational Politics: Final Thoughts

Office politics is an inevitable part of the workplace; however, it's not always the destructive force that we might think. If left unchecked, it can create a negative environment, poor team morale, and decreased productivity. However, it can also be a positive influence helping to achieve company goals, especially when managing change programs.

To minimize the negative impacts, keep your finger on the pulse, be open and transparent, and promote collaborative working.

Go to the MyHub blog for more insights on a host of organizational issues facing businesses just like yours. From internal communications to employee engagement and remote working, we have help and advice on all the big issues.

And if you want to explore how an intranet can help you manage organizational politics, then sign up for a free demo or 14-day trial.

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8 Strategies For Managing Organizational Politics

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Whether you work in a fast-food outlet or as an executive in a multinational, chances are you will encounter organizational politics. This issue often gets a bad rap. Most of us automatically think of backstabbing, brown-nosing and self-serving schmoozing. We can all recount tales of bootlickers being leapfrogged for promotion or colleagues taking credit for the work of others.

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Once dismissed as clunky, dull document libraries, intranets sometimes got a bad rap. However, the reality is intranets have evolved since those early days. A modern intranet is a vibrant, dynamic corporate hub. They are far removed from the static information repositories of old. Anytime, anywhere access ensures employees can connect, share and communicate even in today's complex, hybrid workplaces.

So, if you have written off the humble intranet as a past relic, it's time to think again. Here we explain all you need to know about the modern intranet. This post sets out the advantages and all the essential features. Carry on reading to explore how modern intranets will help you work faster, smarter, and better than ever before.

Definition Of Traditional Intranet

Traditional intranets first made an appearance back in the 1990s. In those days, the intranet was little more than an internal website. The user experience was almost an afterthought, and content was often outdated and plagued by broken links. Here are some of the tell-tale characteristics of traditional intranets:

Bespoke development and set up plus on-premises hosting

Top-down information distribution and communications

Limited options for interaction or personalization

Desktop UX and no mobile optimization

Inadequate search function

Limited upscaling - once the system went live, the software was rarely updated

For workers, the whole experience was a chaotic nightmare. Unsurprisingly, the intranet quickly became an irrelevant information graveyard in many companies.

Thankfully, the modern intranet is an entirely different beast. Let's explore the features and benefits of modern intranets.

What Is A Modern Intranet?

Unlike their traditional counterparts, modern intranets have a very different look and feel. The primary focus of modern intranets is users. New generation intranets are all bout delivering a superior employee experience. The essential characteristics of modern intranets include the following:

Cloud hosting

Out-of-the-box intranet software with simple setup and management tools

Engaging consumer UX

Interactive features and options for personalization

Mobile optimization

In-built features and business tools that go beyond document sharing

Integration and gateway access to enterprise apps

Advanced search capability

Options to customize, adapt and scale to suit your company's needs

Advantages Of A Modern Intranet

Modern intranets are better suited to today's digital workplaces. Teams that once sat in the same building are more likely to be distributed. A modern intranet ensures workers have all the tools they need to complete daily tasks wherever they are located. Plus, it provides an engaging employee experience that keeps staff coming back. With the worldwide impacts of the Great Resignation hitting businesses hard, modern intranets offer many advantages. Here are just some of the benefits of an intranet:

Improved Productivity For All Workers

Employees can achieve more, faster. They can easily find information, complete business processes online, and quickly share knowledge and expertise. Modern intranets ensure frontline, mobile, and remote workers access the same rich functions as desk-based colleagues.

Smarter Communications

Traditional intranets were all about top-down messaging. Not so the modern version, which supports multi-directional, two-way communication. Team chat, blogs, and social features give staff a voice within the organization. Even water cooler conversations can continue remotely with #timeout channels. Your remote and on-the-go workers remain in the loop, embraced by a strong company culture.

Streamlined Collaboration

Modern intranets make communicating and working together a whole lot easier. Business IM, private project forums, and automated workflows support more effective collaboration. Even better, you can integrate modern intranets with cloud solutions such as Google Workspace, Office 365, and Salesforce.

Simplified Knowledge Sharing

The latest intranets help unlock internal expertise. Social features, including liking, sharing, #channels, and @mentions, are engaging ways staff can share knowledge. Furthermore, employee profiles connect workers to each other and company expertise.

Improved Rates Of Employee Engagement

Personalization is a powerful feature of modern intranets. Users can follow trending issues, #channels, and colleagues based on their interests. This ability improves the relevancy of content and apps. Modern intranets boost employee engagement with a comprehensive set of tools and personalization options.

Seamless Gateway Access

Modern intranets offer single-sign-on access to all your company's enterprise systems. Whether it's Office 365, Dropbox, or Salesforce, employees need just one login. The modern intranet does away with multiple screens and flicking between several apps. Your workers save valuable time and effort, creating productivity gains for the business.

Cost-effectiveness

Modern intranets are a cost-effective solution. Unlike traditional intranets, contemporary versions come without the costs and hassle of hosting and maintenance. Plus, out-of-the-box intranet templates make deployment a breeze.

Agility

Modern intranets can scale alongside your business with unlimited users and data storage. Plus, the product is constantly refined and improved by the intranet provider. Customization and personalization mean you can adapt the software to suit your needs.

Little Or No Training Is Required

Best-of-breed modern intranets use an easily recognizable, intuitive interface. Most employees pick up the basics in a short space of time. And minimal training will see them take full advantage of all functions.

Essential Features Of A Modern Intranet

So, if you are in the market for a modern intranet, what are the essential features to look out for? There's a ton of providers out there. And selecting the right option can be an overwhelming choice. Best-of-breed platforms like MyHub's have several common features. Here are the top six must-have features for a modern intranet.

1. Personalization And Customization

A modern intranet should reflect your unique brand. Make sure your intranet offers full support for colors, logo, fonts, and CSS customization. Also, check that workers have opportunities to personalize intranet data so that it's more relevant. Social intranet features are also essential. Follow-me functionality, activity walls, tags, and even emojis give employees more control over the content.

2. Mobile Optimization

These days it's not enough for your modern intranet to be mobile-friendly. It must also be optimized for mobile devices. Smaller screens and touchscreen interaction mean your mobile intranet may look different from the desktop version. However, it needs to have the same rich functionality so that frontline, on-the-go workers can be productive and responsive.

3. Advanced Search

You want to make it as easy as possible for workers to locate information and data. A robust search engine is a must-have. Modern intranets have intuitive search capabilities that improve information discovery and relevancy. Results filtering and quick previews ensure staff find that nugget of data in next to no time.

4. Integration With The Enterprise Apps You Already Use

Modern intranets already come with a comprehensive set of features to improve workplace efficiency and effectiveness. Here are just some of the tools you can expect:

Corporate calendars

File and document sharing

Newsfeeds

People directory

Business IM

Activity walls

Surveys and quizzes

However, staff will need to use other apps from time to time to complete daily tasks. Whether it's Google Workspace or Salesforce, check your modern intranet integrates with the apps your company uses. You will make employees' daily work simpler. And at the same time, you will boost productivity and collaboration.

5. Comprehensive Analytics

Traditional intranets typically don't have much in the way of user analytics. By contrast, modern intranets provide a dashboard of unified metrics. Every user interaction is captured across all channels and systems. These give a clear picture of how staff are using the intranet. Furthermore, analytics allow you to measure the success of communication or business initiatives so you can optimize the intranet's performance.

6. Easy Navigation And An Engaging UX

The UX is at the heart of the latest generation of intranets. You should expect an engaging, very visual interface. And a clean, uncluttered look with easy, responsive navigation is vital.

The success of your modern intranet often rests on the quality of the UX. Be sure to take advantage of any free trials or demos so you can test out the software before committing. Also, double-check the UI really is mobile optimized.

Tips On How To Select A Modern Intranet Provider

There are hundreds of modern intranet providers in the marketplace. The essential features we identified earlier will help you identify a shortlist. However, your relationship with the provider is also important. Here are some tips to assist in selecting a provider that's a good match for you.

Ongoing Support

Customer service is a crucial aspect of any buying decision. Some providers like MyHub offer unlimited 24/7 help and support at no extra cost. We also provide post-launch assistance and training. Make sure you read the fine print to be confident the support available suits your operations.

Proven Track Record

The glowing testimonials on the provider's website only go so far. Check out the supplier's credentials on independent review sites like Capterra or Gartner. These reviews provide honest, warts-and-all assessments of the software.

Dedicated Design Service

Modern intranets are designed to be super-easy to set up. However, sometimes time and resources are in short supply. MyHub offers a specialized design service. Our expert intranet designers will develop a beautifully designed modern intranet tailored to your needs. All you need to do is go live.

Check out our dedicated blog on how to select the best intranet supplier for more tips and advice.

Modern Intranet: Main Takeaways

If you had a bad intranet experience in the past, you might be surprised by how far the software has come. The modern intranet is a distant cousin to the traditional platforms of old. Designed to meet the needs of today's workforce, modern intranets are vibrant and dynamic. They operate at the heart of organizations, ensuring staff are connected and engaged.

Automated business processes, streamlined collaboration, and social features make modern intranets a hit with workers. And they are also a sure-fire hit with your bottom line. Improved productivity and more efficient working will impact company profits.

If you are sold on the idea of a modern intranet, here are the essential features to look out for:

Personalization and customization features

Mobile-first design

Robust search engine

Integration with popular cloud apps

Comprehensive user analytics

Engaging UX/UI and simple navigation

And when it comes to selecting an intranet provider, do your homework. Check out customer reviews on independent websites. You want to make sure the software does what it says on the box and is easy to set up and manage. Furthermore, double-check the help and support offered by the provider meet your expectations.

If you are in the market for a modern intranet, get in touch with the friendly MyHub team. Our cloud-hosted modern intranets are used by companies of all shapes and sizes around the world. Find out why MyHub's intranet software is so highly rated with a free demo or 14-day trial. Work faster, smarter, and better with a modern MyHub intranet. Get in touch today.

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How A Modern Intranet Helps You Work Faster, Smarter, And Better

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Once dismissed as clunky, dull document libraries, intranets sometimes got a bad rap. However, the reality is intranets have evolved since those early days. A modern intranet is a vibrant, dynamic corporate hub. They are far removed from the static information repositories of old.

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Website For Employees: Top 17 Essential Features

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The good news is employee intranet software makes a website for employees within anyone’s reach. And that includes the tech novices among us.

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Create A Better Workplace With MyHub's Easy-to-use Intranet Software For Small Business

An all-in-one central space for staff to find and share information

Easily communicate what's going on so staff never miss a thing

Streamline processes and automate tasks

Tighten up document management

Solving Big Problems For Small Business

Say goodbye to everyday small business niggles with MyHub's cloud-based intranet software:

Easy-to use pages

Instant messaging

Newsfeed, activity wall and blogs

Staff directory and calendar

File storage and file sharing

Social intranet features

Entry-level pricing. No IT skills required. Perfect for small business.

One Solution. Many Benefits

Discover How MyHub's Intranet Software Solves Today's Small Business Needs

Work As A Team

Promote a true team spirit with tools that make communicating and sharing information easy

Support Remote Working

Provide a simple and secure way for staff to work from home

Intranet For Small Business Features

All in one place. All for one small fixed fee.

Top Rated in Customer Reviews

Why Do Small Businesses Need An Intranet?

Transforming Small Businesses Into High Performing Mini Enterprises

The pace of life in a small business can be fast. Staff wear many hats and have competing priorities. And as a small business owner, it can be extra hard to find the time to share information in an efficient way.

Think of an employee intranet as the central hub for all the inner workings of your business. Starting with your intranet's home page, here you can provide quick updates via the newsfeed module or the activity wall. From this page, staff can also view upcoming events in the company calendar, check contact details in the staff directory, and navigate to all the files, folders and workflows they need.

They'll love the self-service style of MyHub, where they can opt in to receive relevant content via #channels. This reduces information overload, saving them time and hassle.

MyHub intranet offers a safe and secure environment where staff can collaborate, learn about company news and updates, access and store important documents, automate tasks and so much more.
Packed with multiple tools for the modern small business, no other technological solution offers such value in one platform.

Communicating Made Easy For Small Teams

Employees in smaller companies are likely to sit across many projects, juggling tasks and priorities.

Good team communication and access to the right information is essential. This is where email - and its lengthy threads - have fallen out of favor.

In its place, instant messaging, #channels, and group chats are super effective ways to ensure every colleague is in the picture - on and off site. Use this new tool to resolve issues, post comments visible to all, and share information real-time to your co-workers.

Shared Digital Workplaces

With remote working the new normal, shared digital workplaces have become a must-have. Project or workspaces is where information, data and insights can be shared with an invited group of employees. Here they can share ideas, create and engage in their own projects, and be sure to stay on the same track.

Different access rights can be set in line with team members' tasks and roles. And because MyHub is cloud-based, staff can access content from their android, ios or any other device, regardless of their location.

Furthermore, embed Google Apps or MS Office 365 directly in the intranet and documents can also be worked on simultaneously in real-time.

Capture And Retain Knowledge

Say goodbye to missing paperwork, lengthy emails, and lost messages. With MyHub's document management and file sharing system, locating, accessing and updating important documents becomes super simple. Even online chat conversations are stored for referencing later on.

With all your intellectual property under one virtual roof, you'll never worry again about important knowledge walking out the door when an employee resigns.

Secure File Storage

Every enterprise, large or small, has an ever-increasing volume of documents to care for. Having a central and secure cloud-based intranet with unlimited storage is music to the small business owner's ears.

All documents can and records can be filed digitally - meaning no more overflowing filing cabinets or disappearing information.

Automate Processes

Save time and boost efficiency with automated online forms. These are ideal for stationery supply orders, annual leave bookings, onboarding new employees, or any other repetitive process.

Be rid of paper-based or email-based systems for good - while reducing the risk of human error and duplication of effort

Social Intranet For Small Business

A social intranet introduces exciting ways for your staff to instantly communicate, exchange information and work together.

This new software breed now comprises consumer-grade social features. Your staff can easily search, post, update and comment on content.

They can create and share multi-formatted information, including imagery and video.

And participation on your company's social intranet will feel like second nature, as many familiar features such as likes, comments, tagging and @mentions found on popular social media apps (such as Facebook and Twitter) also feature on MyHub.

DIY vs Ready-Made Intranet

Weigh up the pros and cons of creating your own intranet versus a ready-made option

Do-It-Yourself Option

Not many small businesses have the capacity or the inclination, but it is possible to develop an intranet entirely from scratch; however, it requires a considerable amount of technical know-how and also means that the intranet would need to be hosted on a company server. This option, therefore, means lots of dollars along with a hefty investment of time and resources.

Alternatively, you can develop an intranet using easily downloadable software such as WordPress or SharePoint.

This approach still requires a certain amount of technical knowledge, however, as often the software has to be supplemented by add-ons and plugins to achieve all the functionality you require. With over 40,000 plugins available in WordPress alone, that's quite a task to get on top of!

Consider also these types of software, although capable of delivering an intranet, were not designed for that specific purpose, which means that they are not necessarily the ideal choice.

Furthermore, the development, testing and piloting required means that these options are not the quick and easy solution that perhaps they might have appeared at first.

Cloud-hosted Intranet

A cloud-hosted intranet comes with pre-built tools and modules that have already been tried and tested.

There's no need for extensive testing and piloting. All that's required is for you to put your own personal stamp by way of colors, logos and branding. In addition, the cloud provider is there in the background and is happy to lend support or offer advice to help with the implementation whenever it's needed.

What's more, the intuitive setup means that you don't have to be any great technical wizard; in fact, your intranet can be off the ground in just a matter of hours.

Ongoing management is just as simple with an easy to use set of administration tools. Updates are done automatically and security is taken care of by the intranet provider.

Cost certainty is always an issue and especially for small businesses where margins can be tight. And with a cloud intranet, all the costs are clear and transparent - no hidden extras or unexpected costs.

There's also the added bonus that your cloud intranet is easily capable of growing alongside your business - it's as flexible and adaptable as you need it to be.

Ready to Try MyHub Intranet?

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Intranet For Small Business | MyHub Intranet Software

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Create A Better Workplace With MyHub's Easy-to-use Intranet Software For Small Business An all-in-one central space for staff to find and share information Easily communicate what's going on so staff never miss a thing Streamline processes and automate tasks Tighten up document management Solving Big Problems For Small Business Say goodbye to everyday small business niggles with MyHub's cloud-based intranet software: Easy-to use pages Instant messaging Newsfeed, activity wall and blogs Staff directory and calendar File storage and file sharing Social intranet features Entry-level pricing.

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19 Intranet Examples To Help You Design Your Site

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What does a well-designed intranet look like? Here are 19 intranet examples with commentary on what makes them stand out.

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Intranet Design Examples

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The easiest intranet to set up, no technical skills required, deliver your business and employee outcomes

Better Internal Communications

Drive Employee Engagement

Automate Business Processes

Improve Knowledge Management

Enhanced Team Collaboration

Deliver Support Team Objectives

Intranet Software Definition

Let's get started though with a definition of intranet software so we can be clear about what it means.

Intranet software is software that allows businesses to develop a private, secure network that can only be accessed by internal employees. Intranet software enables businesses to maximize operational efficiencies because in a single platform it contains all the tools staff members need to get the job done. Also a great enabler of internal communications, many companies are using intranet software to facilitate joint working and collaboration across teams.

Custom Build Intranet Software

Some larger companies with a dedicated internal IT resource have gone down the route of developing a bespoke intranet from scratch, hosted on the company server. While such an option ensures the intranet is a perfect match to your operational needs, it's not for the faint-hearted. You see, developing a custom build intranet from scratch requires a considerable investment of time and resources which are beyond most companies.

Off-The-Shelf Intranet Software

With this option, you download intranet software such as WordPress or SharePoint from the internet and then create your own intranet which is hosted on the company server. This option may be tempting for lots of companies as often the intranet software is free to download and is readily accessible. And if you already have a company server then it's even more appealing.

There are, however, some drawbacks to be considered before you jump in with this option. Although readily accessible and free, these types of intranet software can be quite complex and require considerable technical expertise. What's more, the free core offering often needs to be supplemented by plug-ins and add-ons to achieve the functionality you require. As well as adding to the complexity, these extras can cost so that the 'free' intranet software soon becomes an entirely different beast.

With this option, you download intranet software such as WordPress or SharePoint from the internet and then create your own intranet which is hosted on the company server.

This option may be tempting for lots of companies as often the intranet software is free to download and is readily accessible. And if you already have a company server then it's even more appealing.

Hosted in the cloud by dedicated intranet providers, with this option businesses customize pre-built intranet templates to create their own, unique intranet site.

Cloud intranet software is a great choice for those who may be less confident with new technology as it is intuitive to use and super easy to set up. What's more, unlike the other options we've looked at, the cloud intranet provider retains responsibility for backups, updates and ongoing security. So, that's definitely one potential major headache taken care of for you.

However, perhaps the major benefit cloud intranet software presents is in its flexibility. Hosting intranet software in the cloud means that all the great tools and features can be accessed 24/7 from any location via an internet connection. In today's flexible workplaces, this is a significant advantage.

Which Type Of Intranet Software Is Best For My Business?

For most businesses there is some issue or pain point that has arisen which has sparked an interest in intranets as the solution. Often it's an identified weakness in internal communications. Maybe it's a desire to break down information silos and encourage better joint working. For others it's a realisation that employee engagement needs to be improved. Or perhaps the driving force is the need to find efficiencies in operations with automated workflow processes. Whatever the case may be, it's important that you set clear aims and objectives for your intranet from the start. This will make the process of matching and selecting the best intranet software for your company a much easier task.

As an organization it's worthwhile spending time on determining what the priorities are for your intranet. One way to do this is to conduct an intranet needs analysis. Ask staff for their views on what information and tools an intranet needs to have. Supplement this with more detailed consultation with a series of focus groups. Or why not consider undertaking a task analysis to really dig down into how staff are currently completing work processes in your business.

And for those companies that perhaps only have a handful of staff, then consider holding a brainstorming session with colleagues. Use their collective wisdom to examine how intranet software could support efficient and effective working within the business.

To help you get started on an intranet needs analysis, in the sections that follow we identify some of the common issues faced by different types of businesses. After all, being clear about what your needs are will help you identify the right intranet software for you.

Intranet Software For Startups And Small Businesses

Cost will be an important consideration for these types of businesses. With limited finances, a cost-effective solution is top of the list of requirements. In addition, having a small number of employees means that there is a limited amount of internal resources available. Therefore, these businesses will also be looking for an intranet solution that is quick and easy to set up and manage on an ongoing basis.

When it comes to pain points the intranet software needs to address, the number one priority is often connecting with remote workers. Many startups and small businesses utilize the services of a virtual team of remote workers and freelancers. And so team communications and staying connected can be a challenge. For these types of companies, intranet software that promotes internal communications, connects employees in a social intranet and that can be accessed remotely will be essential.

What's more, these businesses will be looking for a solution that is flexible and adaptable and can grow alongside the company. Investing in a technological solution is a big deal for startups and small businesses and they will want a platform that they can stick with in the long term.

Intranet Software For Larger Businesses And Corporates

For larger companies and big corporates it's often information needs that tops the list of pain points. Managing and sharing information across several layers and many teams, departments and even office locations has its challenges. These types of companies will be looking for intranet software that streamlines and facilitates the sharing of complex information and data streams.

Another potential pain point as organizations grow is the management of business processes. Reporting requirements, compliance recording and simply getting everyday things done, such as ordering supplies and equipment or even managing holiday requests from staff, requires an enormous amount of form filling and paperwork. And often these business processes are being completed via cumbersome paper- or email-based systems. The potential for important documentation to get lost or for errors to creep in is huge. Intranet software that can automate these businesses processes making for quicker and more accurate transactions will be of great interest to these types of companies.

Employee engagement is also another potential pain point for larger companies and corporates. With hundreds or even thousands of employees perhaps located in different towns and states, promoting a common company culture as well as maintaining employee engagement is often a real challenge. These types of businesses will be looking for intranet software that supports employee engagement with features such as company and team news pages or blogs, employee self-service, staff directories and profiles as well as a survey functionality.

Intranet Software Deployment Checklist

The following handy checklist will enable you to quickly and easily compare different intranet solutions and providers and will help you make a final decision. The simple tick-box type format means that you can see at a glance which intranet software option is a match for your business.

Intranet Software Fit For Purpose

The bottom line is indeed whether the intranet software is fit for the purpose you intend within your business. And this intranet deployment checklist will help you make that assessment.

For some larger organizations with unlimited resources and a dedicated internal IT team, then a custom build intranet may be a feasible option. And for others, creating your own intranet with off-the-shelf intranet software may well be the way to go.

However, for the majority of businesses - both large and small - cloud intranet software will tick all the boxes we have identified above. The truth is in terms of simplicity, ease of use and ongoing management, cloud intranet software is hard to beat. With comprehensive functionality, it also offers flexibility and adaptability as features and tools can be swapped in or out, designs can be customized to your branding and the platform can grow alongside your business.

For most businesses cloud intranet software will most definitely be fit for purpose and will in fact deliver so much more. Interested in exploring the possibilities? Get in touch with us here at MyHub and take a no-obligation tour of our cloud intranet software.

Intranet Software Suppliers

To help you find the best intranet software for your organization, we've put together a selection of the the top intranet suppliers for you to check out below. If you'd like in-depth assistance with choosing an intranet software vendor, we also have free guide How To Select The Best Intranet Supplier. This guide contains 32 questions to determine how easy it is to implement the provider's intranet platform.

Intranet Evaluation Checklist

View our handy tick-box sheet to help you compare different intranet solutions and choose the right one for your business. Get started with an initial needs analysis.

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Intranet Software: How To Select, Plan, Create And Launch An Intranet

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The easiest intranet to set up, no technical skills required, deliver your business and employee outcomes Better Internal Communications Drive Employee Engagement Automate Business Processes Improve Knowledge Management Enhanced Team Collaboration Deliver Support Team Objectives Intranet Software Definition Let's get started though with a definition of intranet software so we can be clear about what it means.

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There's something for everyone in our HR Glossary, from students and interns to senior executives. We have put together a comprehensive resource with easy-to-understand explanations of all things HR.

Don't know your attrition rate from yield ratios? Help is at hand. HR has a language all its own. And our simple definitions of common HR terms and buzzwords ensure you understand what's important.

The HR Glossary will support you in your everyday work.

HR students and newbies in the industry will find it an invaluable go-to resource. More seasoned HR professionals can use the glossary to support their research for reports, projects, and presentations. Or perhaps, you need to decipher some cryptic instructions from the boss? No problem - our glossary is here to help.

We are adding to the resource all the time, so if you find a definition is missing, let us know.

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There's something for everyone in our HR Glossary, from students and interns to senior executives. We have put together a comprehensive resource with easy-to-understand explanations of all things HR. Don't know your attrition rate from yield ratios? Help is at hand. HR has a language all its own.

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All You Need To Know About IM In The Workplace

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The ping of instant messages is now commonplace in businesses worldwide. Many of us already use instant messaging (IM) to connect with friends and family, and the total number of worldwide IM accounts has hit over 8.3 billion. So, it's no surprise the use of instant messaging in the workplace has also exploded. Fast and efficient, what's not to like about business IM, right?

There's no doubt IM has much to offer as an effective communication channel. Many companies are using it to connect hybrid teams and improve customer service. But is it all good news? While there are plenty of advantages to using IM, there are also a few downsides.

This post covers all you need to know about instant messaging in the workplace. You can then make an informed choice about whether IM is right for your business.

Topics covered include the following:

advantages and disadvantages of instant messaging in the workplace

ground rules needed to support successful implementation of IM

Benefits Of Instant Messaging In The Workplace

Real-Time Communication

Many projects are fast-moving, and the ability to make decisions on the hoof is a big plus for companies. With IM, you can hold a real-time conversation online with one or more team members.

Business IM, or team chat as it's also called, is a very handy tool in hybrid workplaces. On-the-move or remote workers have instant access to office-based colleagues.

Furthermore, team chat trumps traditional channels like email and phone calls. There's often a time lag with emails and no guarantees they will be opened, let alone read. Plus, phone calls usually mean workers have to stop what they are doing to take a call. Furthermore, how often have you wasted time playing phone tag with a colleague or getting an out-of-office email?

By contrast, with IM, you can see when a co-worker is online and ready to chat. And you can cut to the chase with a short message. IM doesn't have the formality of an email or the requirement for polite conversation that goes with a phone call.

What's more, features like #channels, notifications, and @mentions improve the relevancy of your communications. Staff have more control over information, which helps reduce unnecessary noise.

Improved Productivity And Efficiencies

Convenient, fast, and easy to use, instant messaging in the workplace boosts productivity. Issues get resolved quicker, and updates are shared faster. Workers can even provide instant feedback with a simple thumbs-up emoji.

One survey found that 21 percent of workers who used IM had a moderate or significant improvement in productivity. Among the top productivity benefits identified by participants was decreased call and email volume (75 percent). Furthermore, 66 percent identified quick resolution of simple questions as another crucial productivity gain.

Team chat also makes collaboration a whole lot easier. You can attach files to IM, share an in-the-moment innovation or assign tasks. You can even use the search to find that crucial nugget of information. Chats can be public or private, allowing for real-time discussions on the next steps. And it levels the collaboration playing field for any remote or on-the-move team members.

Speed is undoubtedly one of the main advantages of business IM. And with faster decision-making comes increased agility and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. When it comes to competitive advantage, these factors are crucial.

Promotes Social Relationships And Team Spirit

Survey after survey has confirmed the pandemic shift to hybrid working is here to stay. According to McKinsey, 30 percent of workers pre-pandemic said they preferred more flexible hybrid working. Post-pandemic, the number has increased to 52 percent. However, hybrid working makes it harder to maintain team spirit and social connection.

Instant messaging in the workplace helps bridge the gap between remote and office workers. And it helps build team spirit for all your people. When casual chats around the coffee machine are off the agenda, informal chatting can take place on IM. #coffeebreak channels bring people together to share personal news, chat about their favorite sports teams or weekend plans. Casual conversations may not be business-critical. However, don't underestimate the value of connection-building conversations to a happy, motivated workforce.

IM is accessible anywhere from a mobile device. So, even on-the-move or non-desk employees can access the same information. This means your company benefits from the ideas of workers who otherwise might feel out of the loop.

The bottom line is people love using IM. It's already an everyday part of all our lives. And your staff will feel comfortable using the platform, readily embracing all those familiar social features like emojis and hashtags.

Enhanced Customer Service

The benefits of instant messaging in the workplace go beyond your employees. Increasingly, companies are using it to provide real-time information to customers. For example, a customer has a service issue or query requiring approval from a manager. A quick IM to the team leader means your customer service staff can respond immediately. The result is a happy, satisfied customer.

Disadvantages Of Instant Messaging In The Workplace

Before deciding to go ahead with business IM, you need to know the drawbacks. Here are some of the commonly reported disadvantages. And top of the list is distraction.

Potential For Distraction

It's true the constant ping of IMs has the potential to distract employees from their work. However, so do phone calls or a colleague dropping by your desk with a query.

Remember also that workers can switch IM off for a period if they need to focus on a task. Most platforms have the option to set your status to available, away, busy, or even invisible. Plus, employees have control over their notifications. They can choose which channels and chats to follow. And they can turn off notifications for conversations that are not relevant.

You can introduce ground rules around the use of IM in the workplace to minimize the risk of distraction. More on that later.

Security

Third-party messaging apps can pose a security risk. They can be vulnerable to malware and viruses. And there's also the potential for IP or personal data breaches. Closed networks and end-to-end encryptions help minimize the possibility.

Integration

There are a ton of IM platforms out there. However, most only operate within their own networks. Sending an IM to a user on another platform is not straightforward. For example, your sales team may already use the chat feature within their CRM platform. And Marketing may be using a WhatsApp group.

When selecting a platform for instant messaging in the workplace, make sure it integrates with the apps you already use. Otherwise, rather than solving problems, you will be creating even more.

Relying On IM Only

Business IM is great for quick one-on-one chats and project discussions. However, if it becomes the dominant communication channel, it can create problems.

Face-to-face communication, whether in-person or virtually, is still essential, especially for cementing those personal relationships. Communicating only through team chat can start to feel cold and impersonal.

Similarly, IM isn't always the best choice for sharing company-wide news or finding corporate documents. The best approach is to have a range of communication channels available. You can then select the right one for the right message at the right time.

Ground Rules For Instant Messaging In The Workplace

You can avoid many of the disadvantages we have discussed with general guidelines. Here are some of the issues to include:

Appropriate Content

Make it clear what content is relevant for IM. For example, sharing jokes and GIFs even on the #coffeebreak channel may not be acceptable in your company. Furthermore, bullying, abuse, or harassment of any kind should be prohibited.

Respect Work/Life Balance

IM means we can reach colleagues at any time in a way that may seem more urgent than a standard email. Workers need to be mindful of respecting their colleagues' downtime. Set expectations around when your staff should be reasonably available. And perhaps, more importantly, when it's inappropriate to send an IM unless it's an emergency.

Furthermore, encourage employees to be upfront about the urgency of their IM. Low-priority messages may not need an instant response. Workers could begin these messages with 'no rush on this' or 'when you get the chance.' And if action is needed right away, something like the following makes it explicit: 'Can you approve these financials by 11 am ahead of the Board meeting at 2 pm.'

Reduce Noise And Distraction

Ensure workers know how to organize and personalize their chats to minimize irrelevant noise. Keep an eye on the number of channels, threads, and group membership to ensure they match your workplace. Business IM platforms can be very noisy spaces, so it's vital staff know the pitfalls. And make sure your guidelines are included in onboarding programs.

Instant Messaging In the Workplace: The Intranet Solution

Before we sign off on this post, we couldn't resist a few words about company intranets. You see, intranets tick all the boxes when it comes to the advantages of instant messaging in the workplace. Even better, intranets help reduce the impact of the downsides. Let's find out more.

Integration

MyHub's intranet software, like many other platforms, comes with a team chat feature. And this means IM is fully integrated with all your fantastic intranet tools. Single-sign-on gateway access gives users a streamlined experience. Plus, the intranet is the go-to platform for everyone in the company. Instead of several IM tools, all your people are on the mobile-friendly team chat.

Integration also means team chat works in harmony with other intranet communication channels, including blogs and newsfeeds.

Security

Intranet team chat comes with all the latest online security features, including SSL. What's more, it's a closed network that reduces the risk of cyberattacks and security breaches.

Packed Full Of Great Features

Intranet team chat is packed with great features your staff will love. Conversations can be public or private. And you can also send direct messages. All the social features employees are familiar with are also available, including #channels, @mentions, and, of course, emojis. You can even pin a chat to your personal chat wall. Furthermore, you can attach files and documents. And all conversations are fully searchable so your people can quickly find what they need.

Minimize Noise

Give workers control with intranet IM's personalization tools. Employees can follow trending channels based on their interests. And they can join team or project channels relevant to their work. Status updates make it clear when colleagues are available to chat. And notifications can be switched off when quiet time is needed. These great features mean the potential for distraction is significantly reduced. At the same time, the relevancy of messages is improved.

Is Instant Messaging In The Workplace Right For Your Business?

When it comes to connecting employees, working smarter, and improving customer service, IM is hard to beat. And you can reduce the potential downsides with some well-planned guidelines.

However, selecting the right IM platform is the key to success. Fully integrated, secure, and easy to use, intranet team chat could be the game-changer your business needs.

Keen to find out more? Sign up for a free demo or 14-day trial and find out how MyHub's business IM could transform your communications.

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All You Need To Know About Instant Messaging In The Workplace

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The ping of instant messages is now commonplace in businesses worldwide. Many of us already use instant messaging (IM) to connect with friends and family, and the total number of worldwide IM accounts has hit over 8.3 billion. So, it's no surprise the use of instant messaging in the workplace has also exploded.

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Business Intranet Solutions: The Why, How and What

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Business Intranet Solutions: The Why, How and What

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When businesses consider any major project, usually the first question that arises is "why" quickly followed by "what" and "how." Why do we need this? What benefits will we reap? What are the requirements? How do we go about implementing the best business intranet for our organization? Will we see a return on our investment? Will it really solve our internal communications challenges? Intranets for business first became popular among large corporations in the early 1990s. While some dismissed their popularity as just another tech fad, magazine admits, "That soon changed as businesses with intranets began to reap the benefits that were apparent to others." Since then, intranets have completely evolved, and their benefits have grown exponentially. What's more, business intranet solutions are not just the preserve of the big corporates either. Businesses of all sizes have woken up to the benefits that a small business intranet solution can offer. If your business is considering implementing, and you are actively considering it, this blog will help answer the why, what and how to help guide your decision. We look at business intranet solutions from the perspective of the large enterprise as well as the small company.

Why Does My Business Need An Intranet?

The answer will vary from company to company. However, it is an important step in not just determining whether or not to get an intranet; it will also guide what kind of solution you choose and what features you activate. Determine why by asking what problem you are trying to solve. The truth is for most companies, business intranets are introduced in response to some issue, problem or pain point. And so, being clear about why an intranet is required in your business is the essential starting point otherwise how will you be able to determine whether your business intranet is a success? Here are some of the top reasons for intranet deployment we've heard from our customers, regardless of their size.

We Need To Improve Collaboration

Departments are often isolated with only email chains to connect employees. More so than ever, with remote working on the rise. Team or departmental silos may well be a problem with information going unshared. It is, however, possible to foster a creative and collaborative environment by using your business intranet as the platform to bring multiple departments and locations together. Project spaces, document collaboration using embedded G Suite or Office 365 apps as well as team or project pages will help to break down information silos and will promote joint working across the company. In-built instant messaging tools, forums and blogs also create lively spaces for team collaboration.

File Storage And Sharing Is A Challenge

Are your employees finding it increasingly hard to locate company policies, data and information? Are they buried under a mountain of paperwork or complicated email trails? Perhaps your company has outgrown Dropbox and other file-sharing platforms? Whatever the case may be, knowledge management is a ubiquitous problem in businesses of all sizes. If employees are struggling to easily and quickly locate the key company information necessary to do their jobs, then there's no doubting that a change is needed. A business intranet can simplify document and file storage in your organization, making it easier to share information both internally and externally. What's more, with unlimited numbers of files and folders, a business intranet will be fit for purpose no matter how small or large the company is.

Our E mployees Are Disengaged
A Gallup poll reports that engagement levels are at the lowest since 2000, and younger employees are the least engaged. The evidence is clear though: employee engagement has a big impact on team morale, productivity and recruitment and retention. And engaged employees are less likely to take time off with absenteeism or a duvet day. Turn that around with a social intranet that connects employees on a professional and personal level. Engage them by using your business intranet to gather feedback, keep employees in touch with the CEO and upper management, build camaraderie and simply give them a voice.
Productivity Needs A Boost

Improving productivity is, of course, a goal of every business. But perhaps you've identified an over-reliance on paper or email-based systems and processes as being an issue in your company. Business intranet software can be used to automate administrative tasks such as timesheet submissions, vacation requests and approval forms as well as sales and purchase orders. As well as being a more streamlined process, online forms also eliminate the potential for information going missing or being misfiled. In addition, business intranet solutions will put the tools employees need at their fingertips whether it's the corporate calendar, document management system, shared project workspace or online staff directory.

Internal Communications Need A Shakeup

Internal communications are essential to the smooth operation of every business no matter the number of employees. And if the traditional team meeting set up is no longer working in your company, then business intranet software offers a complementary platform to support face-to-face communications. Utilize the business intranet's news feed and team or company blog pages to update, inform and engage with the workforce.

We Need Better Connection To Our Remote Workforce

In an increasingly mobile world, employees need to be able to access files, find what they need quickly and utilize the tools of the trade wherever they are. An intranet solves these challenges. And so, if you employ freelancers and remote workers, or your staff are frequently out of the office providing services or generating sales, then business intranet software could be the solution you're looking for to maintain connections, oversight and communications with out-of-the-office staff. In turn, personnel on the road can check in to head office and complete processes while in the field via the business intranet thereby providing a more responsive and enhanced customer service. So, now that you've identified the case for a business intranet and the issues or problems you want it to address, it's time to move on to examine the question of what type of business intranet you need to achieve your goals.

What Type Of Business Intranet Do I Need?

When it comes to business intranets, what options are available? Well, there are two basic choices: an on-premise bespoke business intranet built on-site or a cloud-based solution.

On-premise Intranet

On the face of it, this may seem like a good option as you end up with a business intranet that is a perfect match to your requirements; however, the truth is that developing a business intranet from scratch is not for the faint-hearted. It involves downloading business software such as SharePoint or a CMS such as WordPress or Drupal and developing your own intranet which is then hosted on the company server. It also involves having the technical know-how and the ability to navigate your way through the software. What's more, the software hasn't always been developed for the express purpose of creating a business intranet. WordPress, for example, is more commonly used as a web creation or blogging platform. Many business intranet developers have, therefore, discovered that add-ons and plug-ins are required to achieve the functionality that you're after. And once you have managed to navigate your way through the software and created a bespoke business intranet, an extensive period of testing is required to ensure it does what you want it to do and meets the needs of end-users. The truth is you're looking at a process that could take several months from start to finish and a considerable investment of time and resources. And don't forget the ongoing management and maintenance costs associated with hosting a business intranet on the company server as well as the issue of the space needed to house it.

Cloud-based, SaaS Business Intranet Software

While on-site intranets have benefits, cloud-based technologies are perfect for companies that want immediate implementation with the minimum amount of hassle. SaaS intranet solutions are easy and quick to implement, fully customizable and affordable. They require no change to your on-site infrastructure and are perfect for small businesses that lack a full IT staff. What's more, your business intranet comes fully tested and piloted so you can have absolute confidence that the software is fully functional as well as being user-friendly. In addition, the cloud SaaS provider takes care of all updates, backups and ongoing security as well as management and maintenance of the server, which makes it a simpler option for many businesses. Even once you have settled on whether you need an on-site or cloud-based intranet, there are almost endless features and options to choose from. Here are just a few.

Intranet, extranet or portal? What type of business intranet is appropriate for you is the next most important issue to decide upon, so let's run through the options. An intranet is for internal purposes only. It's accessible only to employees and contains a variety of tools and services designed to support staff in their daily work. An extranet, by contrast, provides limited accessibility to the network for selected external partners. It could be customers, suppliers or clients. And so if your business needs to share information backward and forward with clients and customers - perhaps you're a graphic design company, or a firm of accountants for example - an extranet can make it easier for you to communicate and collaborate when compared to the standard emails or phone calls. And a portal is a gateway that allows your intranet or extranet to interact with enterprise systems and applications. These typically include CRM software or HR apps and means that staff only need one login to access all the apps they need in the course of their work.

Security. Being confident in the security and integrity of your sensitive company information or personal data is more vital than ever in the light of the Facebook data scandal. With a SaaS cloud-hosted intranet you can have peace of mind that your data is protected by the very latest web standard security measures. From firewalls to data encryption and secure socket layers technology, the SaaS provider retains responsibility for all security matters leaving you with one less and potentially significant headache to worry about. So, if you're more interested in fishing rather than phishing, then this could be a major consideration influencing your choice.

Customized access. Internal security threats are just as big an issue as external ones. And security is often a concern when companies look at cloud-based solutions. Choose an intranet solution that allows you to set user permission rights by job roles, teams or departments. In this way, you can limit access to modules, individual pages, content or files so that staff members are only able to access data that is relevant to their job.

Search functionality. What is the best way to organize your data to improve productivity? Should page titles and navigation links be task or subject-oriented? Website magazine weighed in on "Why Your Employees Hate Your Outdated Intranet," and identified "low-quality document management" as one hurdle to companies reaping the rewards of an intranet. You don't want your employees agreeing with the article saying, "My intranet is a document dumping ground, where documents go to die." Search functionality and overall site navigation should, therefore, be top of the list of features to get right.

Social or not. Social intranets are hugely popular and have a role to play in improving employee engagement. Message boards, user activity walls, photo sharing, the ability to "follow" other employees, social notifications, and enhanced staff directories are just a sampling of the social features available. Depending on the needs of your company and the preferences of your employees, you'll want to determine what features will enhance their work experience.

Intranet mapping. Cloud-based solutions are completely customizable. Those companies that opt for a bespoke business intranet, however, will need to design an intranet that is user-friendly. Thankfully, SaaS solutions use pre-tested business templates that allow you to design a look and feel that is unique to your company. What's more, every company expands and evolves over time. Needs change. Files grow. Users adapt. Make sure you select a solution that allows you to add pages and modules through an interface that is easily navigable even to the non-technical novice. Software that is unappealing and hard to find your way around could actually be counter-productive and result in decreased output and a difficult employee adoption phase.

Speak to employees. What is the primary way you want to disseminate news to your employees? You can set up a news feed on your intranet homepage, write an interactive weekly blog with everything employees need to know, or set up a special module that houses all news, policy changes, and important announcements, create a #channel on instant messaging. Employees crave transparency, and the virtual community is the perfect platform to share policies, strategies and other management documents that previously would have been buried on your network.

Before reading on, watch the short video below about MyHub's business intranet - and how it might be the perfect solution for your company.
How Do I Start My Intranet Project?

How do you achieve the goals outlined in the "why" section? A recent study from Harvard Business Review found the common attributes among top companies include collaboration, honesty, innovation, and agility. An effectively designed business intranet can get you well on your way. We've already discussed identifying the problems you hope to solve with business intranet software. Once you've done that, here are your next steps.

There's a lot of things to consider and information to take on board when selecting business intranet software so let's summarize the issues from the perspective of small businesses as well as larger companies.

What's your budget? While cloud-based solutions are affordable for small businesses, cost structures do vary. Talk to possible vendors about how their fees are tallied. Is there a per-user, monthly or one-time cost? What is included in technical support? What additional costs might come up? Does customization cost extra? If so, how much? Be clear about what the costs are from the start to avoid any nasty surprises further down the line.

Determine the possible ROI. Does a business intranet positively impact on your bottom line? Forbes recently highlighted the positive benefits of engaged employees. They found employee engagement improves service, sales, quality, safety, retention, profits and total shareholder returns. In fact, research suggests that companies with lots of engaged employees have 22 percent higher profitability than companies with low rates of engagement. And businesses that have 60-70 percent of their employees engaged had an average total shareholder's return of 24.2 percent. So, the ROI that's on offer with a business intranet in relation to enhanced employee engagement alone is potentially considerable. And don't forget to also add in the reductions in printing, distribution and paper costs as well as streamlined business processes when calculating the ROI for your business intranet.

Take a test drive. The best way to find out if the business intranet solution is a good match for you is to test it out. Many vendors of cloud-based solutions offer free trial periods. This is a real opportunity to get your hands dirty and check out whether the business intranet is what you're looking for so take advantage of this and test the product and individual features. Why not select a sampling of employees from different departments and job levels to pilot the product and provide feedback before rolling it out to the entire staff. That way you can be confident the business intranet software addresses the needs of all staff.

Small Business Intranet: Issues To Consider

Businesses with small numbers of employees need a solution that is easy to set up and straightforward to manage on an ongoing basis. With fewer personnel and no internal IT resource to fall back on, the small business intranet needs to be simple to deploy so that the benefits are maximized from the outset. The provider should be willing to offer help and advice with any implementation or operational issues if it's needed. A cost-effective business intranet solution will also be a priority for the small business when resources are often tight and cost certainty around monthly budgets is essential. In addition, small businesses often employ freelance staff or contractors and are also likely to have staff regularly out on the road drumming up new business. A business intranet that provides full remote access and ensures connectivity for employees wherever they may be will also be on the list of priorities. So, what's the best option for small businesses? A SaaS, cloud-based option will tick all the boxes, including the following priority areas: Simple to setup. The pre-built template format of the cloud intranet means that setup is quick and easy. A simple to follow five-step site builder process will see the small business intranet up and running in just a matter of hours and without the need for any great technical know-how. In fact, it's so easy that pretty much anyone including the office technophobe can deploy a cloud intranet. Another important consideration is that the cloud intranet doesn't require any extensive piloting or testing because the provider has already covered that off when developing the software. This means that the small business intranet will be addressing the organization's needs from day one. Easy to manage. An intranet that is super easy to manage on an ongoing basis is another major priority for time- and resource-limited small businesses. And once again the SaaS cloud option comes out on top with its intuitive set of administration tools. Whether it's managing users - deleting, adding or assigning access rights to pages and information - or editing content be it text, videos or images, it's a straightforward task with the cloud intranet. This frees up staff members to get on with other business-critical tasks rather than spending their time navigating convoluted intranet management processes. Set monthly fee with unlimited data and users. As we've seen, transparency around costs is important to small businesses and that's exactly what you get with a SaaS provider. There's no prospect of any nasty surprises by way of unexpected costs as the charges are clear from the outset. As well as being very competitively priced, it also makes budgeting and managing cash flow much easier for the small business. What's more, the SaaS cloud intranet is capable of growing alongside a business. With unlimited data and users already built in, the small business intranet is largely future proofed leaving plenty of scope for growth and development. Mobile optimized for remote access. The foundation of many a small business is a workforce of freelancers, contractors or remote workers. In a single platform the SaaS intranet will help in keeping open the lines of communication, maintaining oversight of tasks and projects as well as facilitating joint working. Optimized for the smaller screens of tablets and smartphones and with all the same functionality of the full site, a SaaS intranet will see staff members being productive and connected no matter where they are located. Full support service. It's reassuring for the small business to know that there is help and expertise readily available should they need it. With a comprehensive series of FAQs, how to videos and detailed guides on just about every aspect of an intranet, a SaaS provider offers a helping hand every step of the way.

Business Intranet Solutions For Larger Companies: Issues To Consider

For larger companies, the motivation behind seeking a business intranet solution will be an organizational pain point or problem that needs to be addressed. Larger companies may well have the internal IT resources and budget to develop a business intranet from scratch but that process will take time - usually several months at best. In the meantime, the pain point will continue to fester. Not many businesses can afford to wait for several months before implementing a solution. With a SaaS cloud business intranet, all the hard work has already been done. The functionality is tried and tested, the tools and features you need are already there just waiting for your customization and unique stamp. Larger companies will be as interested as smaller businesses in solutions that are easy to deploy and manage on an ongoing basis and that are cost-effective. And once again, the SaaS, cloud intranet will satisfy all those needs.

SaaS Cloud Business Intranet Software

Whatever the particular requirements of your business may be, building an intranet is only the start of a project. You will need to continue to review and analyze your company's needs and let your business intranet evolve with you. Choose a partner that's in it for the long-haul, a vendor that will be around to help you expand as your business grows. Selecting the best business intranet solution may seem like a daunting task. However, with a software partner like MyHub Intranet Solutions, you'll be accomplishing your goals in no time. Contact us today for a no-obligation demo or a free 14-day trial.

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Business Intranet Solutions: The Why, How and What

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When businesses consider any major project, usually the first question that arises is "why" quickly followed by "what" and "how." Why do we need this? What benefits will we reap? What are the requirements? How do we go about implementing the best business intranet for our organization?

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Everything you need to know about knowledge sharing: the definition, why is it important and ways to implement it in your business.

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The collective knowledge of your people is perhaps your most valuable asset. And yet, a surprising number of businesses have no formalized process for transferring internal knowledge. A hastily arranged exit interview is often the only mechanism for capturing knowledge before an employee leaves. And if the pandemic has taught us one thing, it's this: Companies that can pivot and display agility have not only survived but have thrived in the face of challenges. Knowledge sharing is fundamental to this ability to adapt.

A knowledge-sharing culture ensures your employees can access the right information at the right time. It allows staff to be more productive, exchange ideas and insights, and learn from past mistakes. And it can give you an all-important leg-up over the competition. And the good news is, getting your company to share knowledge may not be as difficult as you thought.

This post covers everything you need to know about knowledge sharing, including the following:

Definition of knowledge sharing

Why knowledge sharing is important

Ways to implement knowledge sharing in your business.

What Is Knowledge Sharing?

Knowledge sharing is the process by which knowledge, skills, and expertise are transferred within a business. It acknowledges that every employee has something valuable to share regardless of the position in their organization's hierarchy.

Types Of Organizational Knowledge

Within every business, there are two main forms of knowledge.

Explicit knowledge is fact-based and is easy to transmit. This category includes information found in manuals, SOPs, and how-to guides. For instance, a checklist on adding a new supplier to the database is a simple example of explicit knowledge your business may have.

By contrast, tacit knowledge is harder to capture and share. It covers on-the-job experiences, plus problems and issues to look out for. A long-serving HR manager, for example, will have a ton of tacit knowledge gained from experience and accumulated wisdom.

Both types of knowledge are critical to business success. Later on, we will look at various ways to capture, catalog, and share explicit and tacit knowledge.

First, let's run through the benefits on offer from knowledge sharing.

Why Knowledge Sharing Is important

Harvard Business Review reports that Fortune 500 companies lose a combined $31.5 billion every year because employees fail to share their knowledge effectively. That's a sobering statistic, right?

However, research from Gartner suggests businesses with more informed employees outperform their competitors by 77 percent.

Knowledge sharing has a range of benefits for organizations, including the following.

Supports Innovation And Creativity

A knowledge-sharing culture ensures workers have easy access to the right knowledge when they need it. This, in turn, stimulates creativity and makes problem-solving and transferring ideas a whole lot easier. The result? A more productive, agile workforce where creativity and innovation can flourish.

Better And Faster Decision-Making

There's no point in reinventing the wheel. If you can share internal knowledge - especially tacit knowledge - this means you can learn from the experiences, and perhaps most importantly, the mistakes of others. For example, the social media advertising campaign by colleagues in Los Angeles will provide a wealth of practical know-how. The New York team can learn from and adapt that experience to maximize their local campaign.

Furthermore, consider all that time workers waste sifting through shared drives or lengthy email threads searching for that crucial data. Despite technological advances, the Panopto Workplace Knowledge and Productivity Report suggests inefficient knowledge transfer is rife. According to the report, US knowledge workers waste nearly six hours each week due to inefficient knowledge sharing.

Real-time knowledge sharing from a centralized platform means staff can act more quickly. Time isn't wasted locating data or expert help. Instead, employees have ready access to the correct information and can make better decisions.

Enhanced Customer Service

Another welcome benefit of for organisation that share knowledge is enhanced service to customers. Sharing knowledge and innovation can reduce the time needed to deliver a product or service. And your customer will appreciate and value an informed, knowledgeable workforce.

For example, imagine a service technician faced with a tricky problem while out in the field. Instead of wading through a complex manual, the worker can ping an IM to a colleague with subject expertise. The issue is resolved quickly and efficiently, making for one happy customer.

Improved Employee Engagement

Knowledge sharing is a great way to empower employees. A knowledge-sharing culture sends a clear signal to workers about how much you value their expertise. Plus, a centralized platform allows for a proactive, self-service approach, which is liberating for staff. Plus, employee engagement also has an impact on retention and recruitment. And with Gallup reporting engaged teams have 21 percent more profitability, that's a big difference to your bottom line.

Reduced Impact From The Loss Of Staff

Millions of experienced, knowledgeable employees retire every year. And according to Pew Research Center, the pandemic has seen even more staff retire. The number of Baby Boomers retiring increased by 3.2 percent in 2020. Furthermore, according to Mercer, US companies have an average turnover rate of 22 percent. These statistics represent a significant amount of organizational know-how simply walking out the door every year. Top-performing businesses take steps to capture and catalog that knowledge to reduce the impact of its loss.

With a shared understanding of what knowledge sharing is and why it's vital, let's look at how to increase it. And the good news is there are several easily implemented ways you can improve your organisations ability to share knowledge.

7 Practical Ways To Increase Knowledge Sharing In Your Business

1. Create The Right Environment

Not all workplace environments support knowledge transfer. Managers should lead by example and be willing to share their knowledge while also creating opportunities for others to do so. For instance, lunch-and-learn events, project team debriefs, and weekly learning roundups encourage workers to share their expertise.

Therefore, consider making knowledge transfer part of your company culture. And emphasize that sharing failures and successes is an integral part of the process.

Furthermore, ensure you have a physical setup to encourage knowledge sharing. Water coolers and coffee stations are naturals hubs for workers to gather and informally share insights. And consider introducing social spaces such as conference rooms with casual seating for informal get-togethers. Sometimes mixing things up with an off-site session at the coffee shop can spark innovation and creativity.

And for remote workers, these ideas will need to be replicated virtually. Intranet-based blogs, forums, webinars, and # channels are a great place to start.

2. Knowledge Sharing Techniques

Every employee is different. Some will be comfortable getting up in front of colleagues and sharing their knowledge. Others will prefer to use written communication to contribute their insights. Don't just rely on one technique. Instead, be prepared with a wide variety of knowledge-sharing tools. That way, employees can pick and choose the method that works best for them.

For example, supplement formal mentoring and work shadowing arrangements with less formal quizzes, games, and simulations. Make use of wikis and podcasts for remote workers. And use how-to videos alongside SOPs.

3. Promote Cross-Team Collaboration

There's no better way to encourage knowledge transfer than with cross-team collaboration. Joint working helps break down the departmental silos that often stand in the way of knowledge sharing. Project team members bring a wealth of individual experience and knowledge, which delivers a superior outcome when shared and combined. What a great advert that is for knowledge transfer and sharing.

And the best part is that team collaboration software allows workers to collaborate in real-time regardless of location. Remote workers can take play full and active roles just as their office-based colleagues.

4. Revamp Your Onboarding Process

When it comes to knowledge sharing, new hires is a great place to start. For most organizations, onboarding is a one-way passive process with the new hire absorbing vast amounts of information. However, recruits are encouraged to contribute their ideas and insights from day one in a knowledge-sharing culture. After all, the individual's fresh perspective and bright ideas were probably some of the main reasons you hired them.

Knowledge-sharing organizations value the input of new hires from the start. They are encouraged to open up about their knowledge and past experiences for the benefit of colleagues. Managers and executives show a willingness to listen, and the new hire feels confident in contributing their ideas.

5. Encourage Employees To Create Content

Content is one of the main platforms for sharing knowledge. It could be in a variety of forms, including blogs, vlogs, podcasts, and webinars. Encourage team members to write their own content and create checklists or how-to videos individually or in small groups. And just like you would on social media, allow staff to share, comment, and like. Utilizing self-generated content in this way is empowering and engaging for employees.

6. Incentivize Knowledge Sharing

Many companies have found it helpful to incentivize knowledge transfer. A shoutout to an employee whose bright idea has resulted in cost savings or productivity gains is often all it takes. Or why not publicize tangible ways knowledge sharing has benefitted the company in the staff newsletter. Rewarding employees encourages others to get involved. And it's another way to demonstrate how much you value the knowledge and expertise of your team.

7. Use The Company Intranet

Knowledge-sharing platforms work best when they are integrated with existing workplace apps. Already used by staff daily, the intranet can also serve as a highly effective platform for sharing organizational knowledge. With an intranet, you can bring knowledge directly to your employees in an environment they are already familiar with.

Under one virtual roof are a variety of tools that support knowledge sharing. Select from the following great features to kickstart knowledge sharing in your business:

Activity walls and follow-me functionality to showcase expert knowledge

Forums and project spaces to brainstorm ideas and problem solve

Automated forms and checklists to capture expertise and assess understanding

Centralized library of policies, procedures, data, and information organized in a way that's logical to your business

Easy file sharing both internally and externally

Instant messaging for the speedy resolution of queries

# channels and notifications on trending topics

Employee profiles that highlight knowledge make it easy for staff to identify internal experts

Newsfeeds to keep everyone informed and celebrate the wins achieved through knowledge sharing.

Knowledge Sharing For Today's Workplace

Deloitte's 2021 Global Human Capital Trends survey has underlined the importance of knowledge sharing in today's digital workplaces. Deloitte identifies knowledge as being a key competitive differentiator and diver for business performance.

According to Deloitte's survey, 75 percent of respondents acknowledged that creating and preserving corporate knowledge is important or very important for their success. But only nine percent said they are very ready to address this trend.

Don't be one of those unprepared companies.

The easy-to-implement, practical ideas outlined here will ensure your business capitalizes on the wealth of knowledge you already have.

Interested in finding out more on how an intranet solution can support knowledge sharing in your business? Get in touch with the expert team at MyHub. Our easy to setup and simple to manage intranets contain everything you need to promote effective knowledge sharing. Sign up for a free demo or 14-day trial and explore the possibilities today.

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Knowledge Sharing Made Easy: Make The Most Of Your Knowledge

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The collective knowledge of your people is perhaps your most valuable asset. And yet, a surprising number of businesses have no formalized process for transferring internal knowledge. A hastily arranged exit interview is often the only mechanism for capturing knowledge before an employee leaves.

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Looking to set up an intranet system? This is a simple guide on how to set up an intranet website from a completely non-technical perspective.

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How To Set Up An Intranet Site - A Simple Guide

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How To Set Up An Intranet Site - A Simple Guide

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Are you persuaded by the case for an office intranet but frustrated by the lack of support from your IT department? Are you bamboozled by talk of LANs and WANs when you Google 'create an intranet'? Is an intranet something you've been considering for a while, but it all seems too complicated and so it's ended up in the too hard basket? If this sounds like you, then help is at hand!

In this post, we look at how to set up an intranet from a completely non-technical perspective. You'll be surprised at just how easy it is for even the average person to create a professional, fully functioning intranet without the need for a college degree in computing or the support of a team of IT professionals!

First though, we define what an intranet website is before looking at the benefits of creating an office intranet. We then take a look at the different types of intranet out there, including extranets and portals.

Finally, we examine the pros and cons of the company network server option versus that of a custom-built intranet or a cloud-based hosting service.

The aim of this post is to provide you with enough information to make an informed choice about the best option for your business.

What Is An Intranet?

In simple terms, an intranet is a private online network that is only accessible to internal staff or a specially selected audience. An intranet website is a central repository for all the key information and tools that staff need to get the job done. From document management systems and file sharing through to automated processes, news pages and blogs, corporate calendars and collaboration tools, the intranet offers all these essential features in one platform with a single login.

Intranet Definition

Here's our succinct and easy-to-understand definition of an intranet:
Created using internet software, an intranet is a private, internal communications platform which contains a range of features that make the daily work of staff more efficient and effective.
What Are The Benefits Of An Intranet?

increased workforce productivity

streamlined business processes

enhanced team integration and collaboration

ease of communication

open all hours, 24/7 access enabling more flexible working arrangements

improved rates of employee engagement across the business.

If you are reading this article, then the chances are that you are already thinking about creating a company intranet and are familiar with the benefits on offer. It's worthwhile though quickly reminding ourselves of the undoubted advantages which include the following:

Simply put, a company intranet will add value to your business by helping staff members to be more productive as well as efficient and effective.

So, now that we've made the business case for a company intranet let's look at the different types of intranet and how businesses are using them.

Types of Intranet Software

You've probably come across the terms intranet, extranet, and portal and wondered what the differences are. The short answer is that they are all types of intranet but are deployed in different situations and for specific purposes. We've already looked in detail at the definition of an intranet so let's find out more about the other two options.

Definition Of An Extranet

An extranet is also a closed private communications network, but the difference is that it's accessible to selected external parties such as customers, clients, or suppliers. The extranet enables these external parties to more easily and efficiently communicate, collaborate and share information directly with a business.

Types Of Extranet

Universities and colleges have utilized extranet software for the payment of fees and sharing of information with students and parents.

Manufacturing companies have used extranets to enhance communication, collaboration, and the flow of information with suppliers. The extranet helps to streamline the supply chain resulting in cost reductions and enhanced operations.

Graphic design businesses, accountants or law firms are good examples of companies that need to share information backwards and forwards with clients and customers regularly. These types of businesses have made extensive use of extranet software as it saves valuable time and resources, especially when compared to more traditional emails or phone calls.

So, in what situations do businesses deploy an extranet? Here are some examples of how companies have used extranet software to support their operations:

Definition Of A Portal

A portal is a type of window or gateway which enables intranets or extranets to connect and integrate with enterprise systems or apps, including CRM software or human resources applications.

The great advantage of using a portal is that these tools come together in a single platform with just one sign-on. Users utilize the same email address and password to seamlessly access all apps. Staff members will no longer need to remember another password or have multiple screens open at the same time. It's super convenient and makes for more efficient working.

Examples Of Portal Software

The single-sign-on feature alongside the opportunity to access and integrate multiple systems and apps makes portal software a popular option for many businesses. In addition, users can customize the apps on the portal allowing for a personalized experience

Insurance companies have used portal software to allow customers to manage their accounts, check up on purchased products and services, as well as utilizing integrated features for policy payments and renewals.

Real estate companies are regular users of portal software. They have utilized the technology so that users can customize and personalize their experience with location preferences and key search criteria. Every time that user then logs on, they do not have to re-enter their preferences. Instead, they are presented with options based on their previous browsing history. In addition, the portal can be integrated with CRM software as well as the agent's calendar for a truly seamless customer service.

Healthcare providers have used portals to interact and connect with patients. The ability to quickly and easily arrange appointments, request repeat prescriptions, update personal information, access knowledge resources around conditions, treatments and general health advice makes life easier for patients and healthcare providers alike.

tailored to their needs. Here are some real-life examples of industries that are using portal software:

How To Set Up An Intranet Site

1. Use a server connected to your company network. You'll need to install intranet software onto your server.

2. Use a cloud-based hosting service. You pay a hosting company to host the intranet for you.

The first thing to consider is that much like your company's internet website, the intranet will need a server. There are two main options available:

Let's examine each option in detail.

Company Network Server Intranet Option

The decision to opt for a company network server may well be influenced by the size of the organization and the available IT resources. Larger companies often already have a server whereas for smaller organizations it may be necessary to purchase one and so that cost will need to be factored into your budget.

To set up the intranet you first need to install intranet software onto your server that will enable you to generate the pages and insert the content. There is a whole range of options out there and which one you choose will be influenced by its ease of use, functionality and adaptability. Some of the off-the-shelf type packages, however, can still require a certain amount of technical knowledge.

Another important point to note here is that often the software available on the market has not been specifically developed with an intranet in mind. For example, some companies have used WordPress to develop an intranet; however, although capable of creating a perfectly acceptable intranet, WordPress was actually developed as a blogging or website creation tool. It doesn't necessarily, therefore, have all the functionality and ease of use, say, dedicated cloud intranet software has.

Another popular software choice is SharePoint. Developed by Microsoft, SharePoint can seem like a good choice for an intranet particularly if your company already uses Office 365. SharePoint is, however quite complex to set up and is quite often just used as a document management or storage solution. Although it can also be used to set up an intranet, it won't tick all the boxes in quite the same way as business user focused intranet software will.

Some companies use a consultant or get their existing web developer to create the company intranet. These are both good options for those that lack technical savviness, but they will increase your costs.

The main disadvantage of the network server option is that you are responsible for everything. From managing the intranet server, installing updates and backing up data to issues of security and virus protection - you will have to handle all the management and maintenance. In addition, intranet servers take up a lot of valuable physical space and so they are not always a feasible or desirable option. Office space is, after all, an expensive commodity.

Cloud-Hosted Intranet Option

Under this option, you pay an online hosting service to host your intranet site. Once again there are a number of providers out there including MyHub. With a cloud-based hosting option you simply log on and create the pages and content. Most providers utilize pre-built intranet templates that you can easily follow and adapt to meet your organization's requirements. In addition, the intranet can be customized to suit the structure of your business and your company logo, style and colors.

The biggest advantage with online hosting is that there is no software to install or server to maintain. In fact, hosted intranet solutions are usually super easy and quick to set up and require little, if any, technical know-how. What's more, the hosting service is also responsible for all technical issues, maintenance, updates, backups and security. Most hosted solutions will also provide ongoing help and support to intranet administrators.

Furthermore, intranet hosting services are usually charged on a monthly basis and so the costs are fixed. In the case of MyHub, for a fixed monthly fee, companies can enjoy unlimited numbers of users and unlimited data storage. This makes the cloud option very cost-effective and it also provides that all important cost certainty that is critical to businesses, particularly small enterprises and start-ups.

Another great advantage of cloud-based intranets is that they can be accessed by staff anytime and anywhere on a tablet, smartphone or computer with internet access. Many businesses no longer operate the traditional desk-bound, 9 to 5 model of working. Increasingly we are seeing companies offering more flexibility as well as remote working. In this context, online intranets are a great advantage and help to facilitate more flexible working. So, when developing your intranet, it's important to ensure the site is mobile friendly and optimized for the smaller screens of smartphones and tablets.

Custom-Build Intranet Option

There is one final option that we need to mention and that is the custom build. Some larger companies, particularly those with a strong internal IT resource, have opted for an entirely bespoke intranet built from scratch. The driving force is usually the desire to create an intranet focussed on addressing the specific needs of the business. Another attractive factor for many companies is that they retain complete control over functionality, updates and revisions rather than delegating this to an external provider.

There are, however, a number of disadvantages not least of which are the time and resources involved in developing a custom-built intranet. In fact, the whole process from start to finish can easily take several months and many thousands of dollars.

What About Intranet Content?

Having considered the why and the how, let's turn our attention to the what: what content should be included in an intranet?

Given that the whole point of an intranet is to make the working lives of your staff easier, the best starting point for addressing this is employees themselves. Consider setting up a project team with representation across the whole organization to determine what information it is that staff need to have at their fingertips. It's worthwhile investing the time and effort in this stage so that you get it right. There's no point in having a flash intranet website if staff don't use it because it doesn't have that critical corporate information.

It's likely though that your intranet will include some, if not all, of the following elements:

Draw up a map of the sequence of pages on your intranet. This will give you a good feel for the overall flow and sequencing of information and will also help you develop a site menu.

email accounts

document management systems

corporate calendars and meeting booking systems

knowledge management

shared project spaces to facilitate joint working and collaboration across teams

task and project management

communication tools such as blogs, discussion forums and webinars

automated business processes such as booking annual leave or ordering supplies.

Be mindful though of information overload. It is tempting to put every piece of company information on the intranet. But if it's not relevant or staff can't find it easily then they will simply stop using the intranet altogether. It's a tricky but very important balancing act.

In addition, when developing content try to make it as engaging as possible. Company safety and health information for example, although very important, can be a pretty dry topic. Try to enliven it by including lots of visual interest with diagrams and photos, online quizzes or surveys or even by injecting some humour. Be mindful of the different learning styles apparent in the modern workplace and incorporate a range of media that will satisfy all needs including video, podcasts, wikis and webinars. Be inventive. Using a few of these tricks will make staff more likely to engage with the intranet thereby increasing your staff adoption rates.

Finally, make sure that you refresh the content on a regular basis. Static images, unchanging text and worse still outdated information is quite simply dull and boring for users. So, on a regular basis make sure that you update the images, revise the content and get rid of anything that's no longer relevant or up to date.

Intranet Design Issues

Intranet design issues is an involved subject that warrants its own dedicated post. Here we touch on some of the key principles to consider and we invite you to check out the Complete Intranet Design Guide for more detailed information.

The main point to get across when it comes to design is the simpler the better. Clean, uncluttered pages with plenty of white space is the way to go rather than some flash, all singing and all dancing intranet that is just way too much. For example, that purple color that looks so vibrant and eye-catching in your company logo can soon become annoying and overbearing when used as the backdrop for every page on your intranet. The most successful intranets have opted for a minimalist look and present information in bite-sized, easily digested chunks with the option to click for more detail.

Intranet Security

An often overlooked but significant consideration when planning your intranet is security. Don't make the mistake of thinking that because your intranet is a private communications network it's somehow immune from external security threats. Cybercrime continues to be a major issue. Whether it's phishing, hacking, viruses or ransomware, the ever-changing methods deployed by hackers make it a full-time job keeping on top of it all. And yet you need to ensure that all your sensitive company data and the personal details of staff and customers are as secure as possible.

However, with a company network server intranet and the custom-build option, the responsibility for security rests firmly with you. So you will need to develop knowledge and expertise in firewalls, encryption technology, virus protection and so on. What's more, the threat from cybercrime is constantly evolving, which means that you will need to keep your knowledge updated.

If that sounds like a daunting task, then the cloud-hosted intranet option may be a better fit. Under this option, the cloud provider retains responsibility for intranet security. It's down to the provider to make sure that the very latest security features are in place to safeguard your intranet. It's in the interests of the cloud provider to be up to date on the latest techniques - after all, their livelihoods depend on it.

Intranet Pilot

Before you go live with your intranet, it's a good idea to pilot the most easily published material as a trial run. Any online intranet provider will be happy to give you a demonstration or free trial so that you can fine-tune the product. A webinar or shared-screen guided tour is a great way to assess whether the software is a good match for your office intranet requirements. There is, however, no substitute to actually playing around with the software yourself.

If you have gone down the route of a company intranet server option then testing the intranet site for functionality and user-friendliness is worthwhile. You can then use the feedback to tweak the design and content as necessary before it goes live to all staff.

Other issues that piloting can help you address include site permissions and access rights. Not all staff will need to access all parts of the intranet. It will be necessary to maintain the confidentiality of some information by limiting access to those staff that really need it.

However, with a cloud option, all of this pre-testing and piloting will have already been completed by the provider. In fact, the offering from a cloud provider will be constantly tweaked and refined in response to the real experiences of a whole host of businesses that are using the intranet website day in and day out.

Ask For Help!

Hopefully, we've now shown you that setting up an intranet may not be the technical minefield you first thought it was. In fact, with a cloud-hosted intranet, it's possible to have a professional-looking and fully functioning site up and running in a very short space of time. Contact us at MyHub for a free demo or 14-day trial and see your business start to enjoy the great benefits an intranet has to offer.

Further Reading

We've only been able to scratch the surface in this post. The MyHub blog includes a host of extra resources and further reading on a wide variety of topics. Whether it's additional advice on how to deploy an intranet, or specialist guidelines on generating engaging content or tips on intranet design, our blog will educate, inspire and entertain. Here's a selection of what's on offer:
The Easiest Intranet Solutions: What Are You Really Looking For? Intranet Design: The Ultimate Guide WordPress Intranet: 7 Of The Biggest Challenges 10 Things To Consider Before You Start Your Intranet Project Intranet Templates Could Be the Solution Your Business Needs? 5 Top Tips On How To Produce Engaging Intranet Content Intranet Post-Launch Traps And Other Considerations Intranet Platform: How To Make The Right Choice Stop! Before You Dive Into Your Intranet Project Read This Post The Easiest Intranet Solutions: What Are You Really Looking For? Employee Intranet: 40 Hot Reasons Why Every Business Needs One

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How To Set Up An Intranet Site - A Simple Guide

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Are you persuaded by the case for an office intranet but frustrated by the lack of support from your IT department? Are you bamboozled by talk of LANs and WANs when you Google 'create an intranet'? Is an intranet something you've been considering for a while, but it all seems too complicated and so it's ended up in the too hard basket?

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What Is Team Chat And How Does It Differ From Email?

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Let's be honest, who doesn't look forward to a long weekend. A chance to spend quality time with family, run some errands, or catch up on Netflix, what's not to like? Imagine, then, if a 4-day week was introduced in your workplace, how cool would that be. Flexible working has undoubtedly emerged as one of the main legacies of the pandemic. Hybrid models, remote working, and staggered schedules are now commonplace. Surely, a 4-day work week is just a natural next step.

However, while employees may welcome the prospect of a shorter week, is it good news for businesses. Can you really maintain productivity if staff are working fewer hours?

Several recent high-profile experiments suggest it is possible to maintain or even increase productivity with a shorter week. Microsoft Japan's announcement that productivity rose by 40 percent during a trial period grabbed attention worldwide.

In this post, we explore the pros and cons of a 4-day work week. By the end, you will be able to make a more informed decision for your business. Let's get started with a definition of the 4-day work week.

What Is A 4-Day Work Week?

The 4-day work week is not to be confused with a compressed schedule. You probably already have employees who work their full quota of hours over four days. Instead, a 4-day week involves staff working fewer hours for the same pay.

Some companies have given employees the choice of what day they can take off. And others, like Microsoft Japan, have decided to shut up shop on Fridays or Mondays. Another option is to have a staff roster to ensure you satisfy customer service and operational needs throughout the week.

There's no doubt that for many businesses, fewer hours in a week is impractical. Hospitality, retail, and health providers will find the concept challenging. However, proponents of the shorter week argue that most companies can make it work. Furthermore, they contend, the 4-day work week offers many benefits.

What Are The Benefits Of A 4-Day Work Week?

Those in favor of a 4-day week claim that the benefits go beyond creating a better work-life balance for staff. Here's a run-through of the main benefits put forward:

Environmental Impact

Supporters claim reductions in energy consumption and pollution generated by commuters are major benefits of a 4-day week.

For example, the US state of Utah introduced a trial 4-day work week schedule. The experiment resulted in savings of $1.8m in energy costs. And an estimated reduction of 12,000 metric tons of C02 by cutting down employees' commuting. That's the equivalent of taking 2,300 cars off the road for one year.

Better Use Of Time

According to advocates, the 4-day week encourages staff to use their time efficiently. More refreshed and energized, the argument is that workers are more focused on the task. Plus, the incentive of a day off sees them happily put in extra effort to get the job done.

Reduced Turnover And Absenteeism

The 4-day work week means that staff come to work more rested and invigorated. And they are better able to cope with workplace challenges. The argument goes workers are less likely to take sick leave or duvet days. And a better work-life balance results in happier workers, reduced turnover and increased employee engagement.

An Equal Workplace

Proponents claim that a 4-day work week provides for greater equality in the workplace. It allows staff to juggle childcare or caring responsibilities more easily. And with women being disproportionately affected, it results in a more equal workplace.

Does A 4-Day Week Increase Productivity?

For most companies, this is perhaps the crucial question. Is it really possible for staff to work shorter hours and maintain, or even better, increase productivity?

Those in favor of a shorter work week argue that it's a myth that employees are currently productive all the time. Research cited by SHRM suggests that workers are only productive for an average of 2 hours and 23 minutes per day. The rest of the time is spent dealing with unnecessary emails and attending pointless meetings. Furthermore, most of us waste plenty of time chatting with colleagues, checking social media, and reading the news online.

However, Stanford University has identified a strong link between hours worked and productivity. Their research found employees who feel overworked are less productive than those who work shorter hours.

Proponents of the 4-day work week argue that more refreshed and focused employees can maintain and even increase productivity. Natalie Nagele, CEO of software company Widbit and 4-day week pioneer, summed it us as follows:

'I don't think 40-hour weeks are productive. Give employees space to do their work. Don't micromanage them. Don't harass them. Don't make them go to unnecessary meetings. They will get more done in four hours than eight.'

What Are The Disadvantages Of A 4-Day Work Week?

Those against the concept of a reduced work week have identified several disadvantages, including the following:

Decreased Customer Satisfaction

Ironically, the state of Utah experiment we mentioned earlier closed due to reduced customer satisfaction. Despite the environmental benefits, customers complained that they couldn't access government services when offices were closed.

Rostered days off and using technology such as chatbots and extranets can solve some customer service issues. However, maintaining high levels of customer service remains a stumbling block for many businesses.

It Opens The Door To Competitors

Detractors argue that introducing a 4-day work week gives the competition an opportunity. If your company is closed on Fridays, existing and potential customers may turn instead to your competitors. And AI-powered websites and chatbots won't satisfy those customers that want personal service.

More Unequal Workplaces

Rather than helping to address workplace inequalities, critics claim the 4-day week creates more imbalances.

As we have seen, not all industries can easily implement a 4-day work week. Teachers, nurses, and public transport workers are just some professions where a shorter week presents challenges. Employers in these sectors may find they have to hire more workers to cover those enjoying a day off, making it uneconomic. So, for whole sections of society, the 4-day week maybe just pie in the sky. This could lead to more rather than less workforce inequality.

Which Country Has A 4 Day Work Week?

So, which countries have experimented with a 4-day work week? Several companies worldwide have introduced 4-day arrangements. These real-world experiences provide insights into how a 4-day work week could impact your business.

New Zealand

One of the forerunners for a 4-day work week is New Zealand's Perpetual Guardian. The company is often held up as an exemplary pioneer of the shortened week. The company introduced the new approach following a successful trial in 2018. Staff are paid for 37.5 hours but are required to work only 30 hours with the same output.

According to Perpetual Guardian, employees have maintained the same productivity levels since introducing the 4-day work week. Furthermore, the company reports increases in job satisfaction, teamwork, and company loyalty. Overall, staff experienced decreased stress levels of up to 45 percent and felt they had a better work-life balance. And all of this has been achieved without compromising on productivity.

Perpetual Guardian's founder Andrew Barnes has co-authored a book, The 4 Day Week, which details the company's experiences.

Japan

In 2019, Microsoft Japan trialed a 4-day workweek. Employees were given Fridays off without any reductions in pay. The company wanted to see whether allowing employees to 'work in a short time, take a good rest and learn well' would increase productivity and creativity.

The results were enlightening. Microsoft Japan reported that productivity (expressed as sales per employee) increased by almost 40 percent over the same period in the previous year. Furthermore, power consumption decreased by 23 percent.

However, the company also reported that 90 percent of workers were in favor of the change. Some skeptics have suggested that employees may have had a vested interest in making the experiment work.

Germany

Berlin-based tech company Awin introduced a 4-day work week following their experiences of flexible working during Covid-19 lockdowns. Staff can choose their day off or take two half days with no cuts in salary or benefits.

Awin has put in place some checks and balances to ensure customer services and operations are not impacted. For example, finance staff are required to work five days during January to cover reporting requirements. And software has been introduced to support team collaboration.

Overall though, the company is optimistic about the change. 'We firmly believe happy, engaged, and well-balanced employees produce much better work,' says CEO Adam Ross. 'Staff find ways to work smarter, and they're just as productive,' he adds.

Sweden

A Swedish care home experimented with a shorter working week in a two-year trial from 2015-2017. Nurses worked a shorter 6-hour day for five days a week while still receiving full pay. Results from the trial were positive. Nurses took less sick leave and reported better health and mental wellbeing. Furthermore, productivity received a boost with an 85 percent increase in organized activities for patients.

However, the project was subsidized with taxpayers' money. And the backlash over the perceived cost-benefit analysis resulted in the experiment being abandoned.

Spain

Authorities in Spain have taken the 4-day work week concept to another level. The country is about to introduce a pilot program that extends the weekend for Spanish workers without any pay reductions. The program will assess whether the extra day boosts employee morale and allows businesses to achieve more in less time.

It's an ambitious pilot requiring an investment of €50m to mitigate risk for participating companies. Up to 200 businesses are expected to take part, with a total of between 3,000 to 6,000 workers.

Spanish politician Iñigo Errejón told the UK's The Guardian that the 4-day week was 'an idea whose time has come.' He added, 'Spain is one of the countries where workers put in more hours than the European average. But we're not among the most productive countries. I maintain that working more hours does not mean working better.'

The pilot is still in the planning stages, and so the results are several years away. However, its scope is a good indicator of just how mainstream the idea of a 4-day work week has become.

4-Day Work Week: The Future Of Work Or The Latest Fad?

There's no doubting that for some industries, a 4-day week is unfeasible. The experience of the Swedish care home we highlighted above is a good example.

However, the new approach can make sense for knowledge-based businesses. For example, architects, engineers, and software developers may thrive when concentrating their efforts in fewer hours. Indeed, the evidence from Perpetual Guardian and Awin appear to confirm this.

The demand for more flexible work options is unlikely to go away anytime soon. The pandemic has clearly demonstrated that workers don't need to be in the office 9-5 to get the job done. What's more, surveys suggest 97 percent of workers don't want to return to the office full-time.

The 4-day week may well provide workers with the flexibility they want while still ensuring high productivity.

One thing for sure, if you introduce a shorter work week, you will need digital workplace solutions to make it happen. MyHub's cloud intranets are used by businesses worldwide to support more flexible, hybrid working. Our fast-to-learn and easy-to-implement intranets will improve communications, support team collaboration, and enhance productivity. Explore what's on offer with a free demo or 14-day trial today.

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4 Day Work Week: The Future Of Work Or The Latest Fad?

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Let's be honest, who doesn't look forward to a long weekend. A chance to spend quality time with family, run some errands, or catch up on Netflix, what's not to like? Imagine, then, if a 4-day week was introduced in your workplace, how cool would that be.

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Ethics In The Workplace: All You Need To Know

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Ethics In The Workplace: All You Need To Know

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Workplace ethics is a complex – but increasingly important – subject. Let us learn more about it!

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Workplace ethics is a complex - but increasingly important - subject.

Society is more conscious and informed about the ethical practices of businesses. Consumers prefer to buy from companies with ethical standards and reputations - whether it's green credentials, principled working practices or fair trade sourcing of product. Starbucks, for example, is committed to one hundred percent sustainably-sourced coffee. And cosmetics company Lush seeks to minimize waste by recycling labels and paper packaging. These companies have successfully positioned themselves in the marketplace as being ethical businesses. Ethics is increasingly becoming a key marketing differentiator for many business brands.

The starting point for any customer-facing company has to be internal communications. With a strong internal ethics program, your employees are more likely to internalize high ethical values and reflect them in their roles.

Definition Of Workplace Ethics

Ethics in the workplace are the moral guidelines that make up a company's operating ethos and culture. These are the principles that guide an individual's behavior in the workplace.

Company ethics may well be influenced by external factors. These could be federal or state legislation, industry regulations as well as market and consumer demands. For example, the workplace ethics guiding doctors and healthcare staff will be different from those involved in retail or hospitality.

Workplace ethics are also influenced by societal expectations. Values such as fairness, accountability, integrity, citizenship and responsibility are the most common.

Examples Of Ethical Practices In The Workplace

Most companies, consciously or unconsciously, already have some form of ethical practice in place. Most employers are required to comply with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's safety and health regulations. In addition, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission expects companies to have anti-discriminatory policies in place.

Organizations may have already developed anti-harassment policies and procedures governing workplace bullying. Guidelines on accepting corporate gifts, standards of employee behavior and anti-fraud are also commonplace.

Others still will have gone a step further by publishing guidelines on the ethical sourcing of manufacturing materials or labor, green workplace practices. Or they may have chosen to donate goods and services to charitable causes.

Your business is probably at least part of the way towards becoming an ethical workplace. What may be lacking is formal recognition, or applying explicit language and labels.

Why Ethics Is Important

Organizations with strong ethics benefit from a highly motivated workforce. Employees who are treated fairly and respectfully demonstrate a powerful sense of shared purpose and good morale. This, in turn, will result in increased productivity.

And a motivated, engaged workforce will not only be more productive but also deliver superior customer service.

According to a report published by the Society for Human Resource Management, the stock price for the 100 most ethical firms outperforms those of their counterparts by 300 percent!

On top of these benefits to your bottom line is the enhanced reputation your brand will enjoy in the market. In the face of ever-increasing public scrutiny, organizations that can demonstrate high ethical standards will command respect while enjoying strong, honest relationships with consumers.

What's more, your business will run more smoothly and efficiently. Staff will have a clear sense of what's expected of them and the boundaries within which they need to operate.

In addition, your employees can feel confident in 'whistle-blowing' any issues around inappropriate behavior. They will feel reassured being supported by your organization.

For attracting new talent, having a strong ethical brand will increase your appeal to new, high caliber recruits. Research tells us that Millennials, in particular, want to work for organizations making a positive impact on the world. For this generational cohort, choosing potential employers is about principles - not just pay.

How To Introduce Workplace Ethics

A strong ethical organization isn't just about having the right policies and procedures in place. It's easy enough, for example, to research and publish an anti-harassment policy for the company. But that won't necessarily deliver the required outcome. Winning over the hearts and minds of employees - so they internalize ethical standards - requires more than just a written policy or statement.

So, how do you go about ensuring ethical standards are embedded with the workforce so that they become second nature? Here we take you through six easily achievable ways for you to encourage and nurture an ethical approach.

1. Define Your Organization's Ethical Guidelines

The first step is being clear about what workplace ethics means to your business. As we have seen, ethics will vary from workplace to workplace. It's important to brainstorm with staff members, stakeholders, business leaders, and if possible, consumers what your workplace ethics look like. Remember some staff may be reticent to speak out. Include a variety of channels to capture ideas. This could include anonymous surveys, suggestions boxes and a hotline.

2. Develop A Written Ethical Code Of Conduct

The next step is to develop a written ethical code of conduct. The code should clearly set out what's important to you as a company alongside the standards you expect from staff.

Make it clear what forms of behavior are not acceptable at work - and the consequences for any breach. It's a good idea to include information on external sources of professional help and support within the workplace. For example, an employee experiencing workplace bullying from a manager may need some external support before laying an internal complaint.

And once it's finalized make sure you publish the code on the company intrane t and website. Publicize it to all staff with the appropriate level of fanfare. Consider running a regular campaign directing staff to a different topic of the code each week. Include a quiz to validate their understanding.

A published code of ethics encourages transparency and can also be useful in the recruitment process. It makes it easy for prospective employees to decide whether or not the company is a good fit for their personal moral code. And it also means employers can readily assess whether candidates are a suitable match for the company culture.

Now, this all gets a little more complicated when we're talking about a remote work environment. Where employees have no physical contact. It is here that a well-defined remote culture is needed, as indicated in the SnackNation guide, with which the members of a remote work team can feel part of the company.

3. Lead By Example

The drive towards an ethical business must come from the top. Senior managers and executives must model expected behaviors and standards. In addition, company leaders should regularly communicate to staff the importance of workplace ethics. This can be reinforced via newsletters, blogs, company meetings and more.

Senior management should encourage a trickle-down effect by making hiring decisions based on ethical behavior. Employees who clearly demonstrate sound ethical practices should be promoted and rewarded. In addition, the ethical code of conduct should be referenced within the annual staff performance review process. This way, it becomes an integral part of employee evaluations.

4. Onboard New Staff And Train Existing Ones

Staff training of new or existing team members will be critical to supporting a program of workplace ethics. After all, workplace ethics are not always black and white - often there are gray areas. It's these less clear-cut situations that can be problematic in the workplace.

Role-playing is a good way to get staff members thinking about ethics and applying it in a practical sense. Think about creating commonplace scenarios. Ask employees to discuss some of the ethical challenges. Also, ask colleagues to share realistic ethical dilemmas they could easily encounter in the workplace. As part of the training exercise, employees can discuss the implications and come up with possible solutions.

Here are some common scenarios:

Role-playing and discussing ethical dilemmas are a great way of encouraging staff to debate what it means to be an ethical workplace. And it's also a good way of keeping all members of an organization accountable for their actions.

What would you do in a situation where you see a colleague regularly taking office supplies home from work for their own personal use?

How would you react if a manager fails to provide mandatory safety equipment for staff performing a manufacturing task?

What about the colleague who regularly phones in sick when actually they are just having a day off to go shopping?

Perhaps you have overheard a co-worker making a racial slur about a fellow worker. What do you do?

How would you react if you see a staff member harassing or bullying a colleague?

If a co-worker posts negative comments on Facebook about a colleague, is that something you should tackle at work?

5. Be Prepared To Take Action

It's pointless having an ethical code of conduct if there are no consequences for breaches. Organizations need to have a zero-tolerance for any violations and must be prepared to take action against those who cross the line. A code that isn't enforced will have no meaning or power and is simply a waste of time. Clearly communicate what the consequences are of a breach. For example, verbal warning, written warning or at worst, dismissal.

6. Review And Update

As we've seen, ethics in the workplace is a dynamic concept. Having gone to the effort of developing an ethical code of conduct, make sure it stays top of mind. It's vital that workplace ethics are reviewed and updated on a regular basis. Societal changes, technological developments, and emerging consumer demands can influence ethical practices.

Make sure you have an annual review mechanism in place as a minimum. Try to include staff representation in the evaluation process.

Ethical Companies Reap The Rewards

Finally, if all this sounds like a bit of chore then consider this: Consumers and employees respect companies with strong ethical standards. In fact, increasingly they are actively seeking out businesses with demonstrated high ethical standards. Ethical businesses are outperforming the competition making it well worth the investment.

If you would like to know how an intranet solution could help improve ethical behavior within your company, contact us at MyHub for a free demo or 14-day trial.

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Workplace ethics is a complex - but increasingly important - subject. Society is more conscious and informed about the ethical practices of businesses. Consumers prefer to buy from companies with ethical standards and reputations - whether it's green credentials, principled working practices or fair trade sourcing of product.

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6 Tips On How To Write A Self-Evaluation Including Example Phrases.

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How to create a Digital Workplace within your company, uniting technology, people, and processes using intranet software.

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My boss doesn’t communicate, this can be frustrating. Did you also know it can also be costly both to you and the business? Here are 10 smart steps to better communication.

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Sometimes dismissed as ancient relics, company intranets have come a long way since their first appearance in 1994. Next-generation platforms have reinvented themselves. They provide state-of-the-art collaboration, communication, and knowledge management tools under one virtual roof - perfect for today's hybrid workplaces.

So, if you are planning your first intranet or looking to revive an existing one, this post is essential reading. We share some ideas and intranet examples to inspire you to revolutionize your business in 2023.

Definition Of A Company Intranet

Let's get right back to basics with a handy definition.

An intranet is an internal website only accessible to employees. Think of it as a gateway to your digital workplace.

The platform provides single-sign-on access to the tools, information, and services workers need daily. Simply put, it's a springboard for achieving the growth, productivity, and streamlined operations every business wants.

Overview Of Company Intranet Benefits

A company intranet can deliver a ton of business benefits. Here are just some of the highlights.

Power Up Employee Engagement

Fun and engaging, your people will love using the software. And it will drive employee engagement by delivering the tools staff need to make their daily work easier. Share news and updates and connect workers via team chat. Be sure to include social features like follows, likes, and activity walls for a modern UX. And keep your finger on the pulse of staff opinion with snap polls and online surveys.

Promote Collaboration And Teamwork

Whether co-workers are remote or office-based, modern intranets make collaboration a breeze. Private project spaces bring team members together to brainstorm, share information, and track progress. Plus, you can embed M365 or Google Workspace apps directly in your internal intranet site for real-time collaboration.

Simplified Communications

Intranets simplify internal comms in our multi-channel, always-on digital world. They provide a single source of truth for all team or company news. You can have conversations and discussions up, down, and across the organization. Take your pick from business IM, interactive blogs, podcasts, newsfeeds, and activity walls. And personalized notifications and alert features ensure workers get all the important information.

Streamlined Business Processes

Automate workflows on the platform for faster approvals and streamlined operations. Whether submitting a vacation request or ordering critical supplies, the software automatically routes customizable online forms to the correct department for action.

Better Knowledge Management

Capture, store, and share vital company knowledge in your centralized intranet. Powered by an advanced search engine, finding and searching content is simple. Whether in-person or remote, your people have the company's collective knowledge at their fingertips when they need it.

Improve Company Culture

The company intranet software has become an indispensable tool for the modern workplace. This digital hub can streamline processes and enhance company culture in a number of ways. By providing a one-stop-shop for company documents, resources, news, and events, corporate intranets are extremely useful to organizations of all sizes.

Human Resources personnel often use them to post company policies and other relevant information. At the same time, CEOs can provide their employees with insights into the company's vision from easy-to-understand blogs. All in all, intranet software helps companies build better workplaces where everyone is on the same page when it comes to company culture.

Do Companies Still Use Intranets?

The short answer is a resounding yes. With so many great benefits on offer, it's really a no-brainer. You may have fallen into the trap of believing intranets are little more than glorified document management systems. However, the technology is constantly evolving. And for many organizations, they are mission-critical digital workspaces perfectly suited to modern hybrid workplaces.

Big-name users include the likes of Adidas, IBM, Princeton University, and Estée Lauder. However, they are not just for large corporates. The software's flexibility means they are also relevant for SMEs. MyHub's customers come from a broad range of organizations of all shapes, sizes, and industries.

What Should A Corporate Intranet Include?

There is a clear path towards success for businesses interested in intranet adoption. A modern intranet must engage employees across the entire organization and make it easy for them to access the information they need from HR policies to key organizational updates.

Additionally, having an experienced team to design and implement your company intranet as well as provide ongoing support will increase engagement levels and ensure smoother adoption. Taking the time upfront to do this right can cut costs with long-term technical issues, engage more employees, and help drive productivity across the business.

When it comes to deciding what to include in your corporate intranet, there's a vast choice to entice you. Modern platforms come with pre-built templates, making it easy to develop a customized solution. The final choice depends on the size of your organization and its unique set of needs. However, there are several must-have features, including the following:

Centralized Knowledge Hub

It's the go-to platform for all company news, resources, and information.

Departmental silos have long been a challenge for company culture, as communication between company divisions can become limited over time. For company leaders, the main issue is how to bridge this divide while still maintaining productive workflows and efficient collaboration.

One way to combat this is with the use of modern intranet software, which can provide an excellent platform for bridging company divisions and giving employees a central hub for communication and collaboration.

By encouraging a company-wide culture through effective usage of a company intranet and its features, such as document sharing, video conferencing, and an internal calendar of events/activities, departmental silos can be dramatically reduced in any organization.

Do away with departmental silos with self-service access that empowers staff.

Communication Tools

Internal comms is a top priority for all organizations. Your company intranet solution should include features like forums, team chat, and file sharing that will encourage employees to improve information flow and multidirectional communication.

Streamlined Processes

Speed up decision-making and approvals with automated workflows. Ensure your platform has customizable online forms, project management tools, and task lists to improve the efficiency of your operations.

Customization Options

No two businesses are the same. You will want to create a solution that's tailored to your organization. Ensure your internal website has the flexibility and customization options you need.

Improved Transparency And Accountability

Implementing a company intranet solution has become a common practice for businesses looking to improve transparency and accountability.

Being an internal communications platform that helps promote company culture by fostering collaboration and communication between employees.

Online processes guarantee that decision-making and accountability are transparent across the entire company. This provides greater oversight and a clear record of communication and decision-making for managers and staff.

This technology enables companies to have a single source of truth that gives clarity and consistency with fundraising, finance, and other company initiatives.

Which Company Has The Best Intranet?

UX research and consulting firm Nielsen Norman Group (NN/g) is a valuable yardstick for determining the best company intranet. For over 20 years, NN/g has published an annual top ten list of the best intranets. This year's top spot went to IBM for a record fourth time. The IBM platform was praised for its superior employee experience.

But it's not just multinational corporates that produce the best company intranet strategy. Also recognized in the annual awards are smaller businesses like the American Medical Association. With just 1000 users, this platform took out the top spot for small organization intranets in 2018. And another previous winner is Acorda Therapeutics, Inc., which has only 350 users.

And what makes these examples so special? The bottom line is that they offer a great experience for employees and deliver on business objectives.

Here are some of the vital features to look out for when selecting the best software for your organization:

Easy to deploy

Simple to manage

Engaging UX and interface

Intuitive navigation and advanced search capabilities

Security and reliability

Ongoing support

Customization options

ROI with cost-effective pricing

Scalability

Wide-ranging choice of in-built tools

Check out our post on the 21 Best Intranet Software For Employees In 2023 for more advice and analysis.

What Companies Use Intranet Software?

Businesses of all sizes and sectors have much to gain. You name it: from architects to transport and logistics, intranets are the driving force behind organizations worldwide.

Here we showcase how just a few different industries are using theirs. Check out our website for real-world intranet case studies on MyHub's customers.

Healthcare And Medical

The internal intranet site is a central hub for sharing critical policies and procedures. This ensures that health workers access expert knowledge quickly and easily. Staff use private team chat channels to share updates, including changes in shifts. Patient referrals are automated using customizable forms. And employee onboarding is simplified using an online checklist.

Education And Training

News, updates, and knowledge are centralized for easy access, breaking down departmental silos. And alerts and notifications keep everyone in the loop. Registration, course selection, and student onboarding all take place online. The software's collaboration tools simplify joint working on research projects.

Legal Services

Corporate calendars help legal professionals keep tabs on critical events, including trials or billing cut-off dates. Dedicated secure client areas make it easy to update clients on legislative changes impacting their business or collaborate on preparing affidavits, wills, contracts, or other legal documents. And larger practices find the employee directory a handy tool. They use it to showcase internal expert knowledge and current projects.

Charities, NGOs, and NFPs

No technical expertise is needed to get up and running, which is perfect for this time and budget-pressed sector. Create dedicated staff and volunteer areas, providing access to everything they need to know. Forum, chat, notification, and alert tools ensure teams communicate and collaborate regardless of location.

How Do You Write A Company Intranet?

Writing the software from scratch is a big undertaking. It requires technical know-how and can be labor-intensive. That's why most companies nowadays select a cloud-hosted intranet. With these platforms, all the hard work has been done for you. The technology is tried and tested. And all you need to do is populate the templates with your own branding and content - simple!

However, even with out-of-the-box platforms like MyHub's, it's still a good idea to thoroughly plan and prepare. After all, you want a solution that addresses your unique requirements. The following checklist will ensure your platform does just that.

1. Be Clear About Your Aims And Objectives

Think about what you want the internal website to achieve, as this will guide your choice of modules and features. For some companies, internal comms is the number one priority, while for others, it will be streamlined processes or more effective collaboration.

2. Get Your Staff Involved

Make sure you involve your people in the planning stage. The intranet should assist them in getting the job done. Find out what's on their wish list of tools and apps. Plus, the early involvement of the workforce helps to secure buy-in. And it will help you with adoption further down the track.

3. Select An Intranet Provider

Selecting a supplier is a critical step. You want to ensure the provider offers the perfect balance of functionality and support at the right price. And there are hundreds out there to choose from. Use the detailed guidance in our post How To Select The Best Intranet Supplier to help you come up with a shortlist.

4. Set Up And Deployment

Now that you have selected your provider, the next step is set up and deployment. And templates make that a simple task, even for tech novices. Use the drag-and-drop page builder to complete the pre-built templates. And then, apply the extensive customization options to make the platform your own. Full color, image, logo, and CSS customization are just some of the possibilities. Complete this step, and you are ready to go live. No piloting or testing is needed as the software is already tried and tested.

5. Measure Success

Now that your exciting intranet is fully up and running, it's time to consider ongoing success measures. Ensure yours has all the integrated metrics you need to monitor usage and performance.

What Are Examples Of Intranets In Action?

Many providers offer free demos, so you can get a good feel for the software before you sign on the dotted line. And it's even better if your supplier has a free trial offer. That way, you can dig deep into the platform and explore how it will work.

And if you want inspiration on design and layout, check out MyHub's comprehensive Intranet Design Guide. This free-to-download resource has plenty of valuable tips and advice, plus good practice intranet examples, including essential must-have features. Our guide will save you time and hassle with a simple step-by-step walkthrough of everything you need to know.

Company Intranets In 2023: Quick Recap

Whether starting from scratch or rejuvenating an existing platform, you may be surprised by how far the software has come. Here's the deal: the company intranet is now a mission-critical piece of digital real estate for organizations of all shapes and sizes. They give employees centralized access to all the information, tools, and services needed daily. Whether your people are in-person, remote, or hybrid, they can collaborate, engage and communicate with colleagues under one virtual roof.

Revolutionize your business in 2023 with an all-in-one solution and power up your company's productivity and performance.

Ready to find out more? Book a free demo or no-pressure 14-day trial and discover what a MyHub intranet can do for you.

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Company Intranets: Revolutionize Your Business In 2023

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Sometimes dismissed as ancient relics, company intranets have come a long way since their first appearance in 1994. Next-generation platforms have reinvented themselves. They provide state-of-the-art collaboration, communication, and knowledge management tools under one virtual roof - perfect for today's hybrid workplaces.

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Organizational Communication: The Ultimate Guide

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Organizational Communication: The Ultimate Guide

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This is a three-part comprehensive guide to organizational communication, in which we help to simplify things once more.
Find Part 1 here.
Continue with Part 2 here.
Read the last part here!

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13 Common Design Features

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40 Reasons Why Every Business Needs An Employee Intranet

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https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internal_communications

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Many businesses have been forced to rethink their strategy. Here are our top 10 internal communication examples to help you with this.

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Intranet Builder: Short On Time? Is A Cloud Intranet The Solution? Here are the options open to you and we present the smart intranet builder choice.

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A WordPress intranet theme could be a very appealing option but what else should you consider before you use Wordpress to create an intranet.

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Wiki: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Employee_engagement

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10 Proven Ways to Reignite The Passion: https://www.myhubintranet.com/how-to-motivate-employees

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How Your HR Intranet Can Improve Employee Relations

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How Your HR Intranet Can Improve Employee Relations

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HR intranet portals deliver on two-way communications, relationship building, remote working and increase employee engagement.

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Bridge The Gap Between IT And Business Users

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Bridge The Gap Between IT And Business Users

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Resurgence Of The Intranet: The IT department is traditionally the guardian of the intranet. Businesses should look to bridge the gap between IT and users.

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IT Intranet: How To Improve Service And Boost Your Profile

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IT Intranet: How To Improve Service And Boost Your Profile

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IT departments are the powerhouse behind every successful business; but, their contribution is often underappreciated. Sometimes written off as being nerdy and uncool, IT departments fly under the radar until something goes wrong. However, the Covid pandemic has done much to raise the profile of IT services. It's certainly been a crazy few months for CIOs and IT departments.

From facilitating remote working to ensuring business continuity, many IT professionals describe it as the biggest challenge of their careers. A recent survey by Cisco Systems confirmed the pivotal role of IT departments. The survey found 88% of participants believe their CIO role has expanded to have a greater impact across the business. But there's also increased pressure on IT departments. The global recession has led to outsourcing, job losses, and a drive to reduce operational costs.

Now more than ever, IT needs to raise its internal profile and demonstrate ROI, and an IT intranet is the perfect vehicle for doing so.

Here we share ten ways an IT intranet can raise your internal profile and contribute to corporate goals.

1. Automated Support Helpdesk

Responding to software or hardware issues is a core function for IT. For many staff, the only interaction they have with IT is when there's a problem. Therefore, providing a fast, responsive service is essential.

An IT intranet supports the helpdesk with automated workflows. Instead of a phone call or email, colleagues complete an online help request. The IT intranet then routes the form to the right staff member for action. Intranet-enabled automatic updates and notifications ensure the worker is kept informed on progress.

And an online system means that IT managers can keep track of response times, identify common issues, and resolve bottlenecks. A centralized, automated system is more efficient and every request is dealt with promptly.

And the good news is because less time is spent administering the helpdesk, there's more time to deliver the service.

2. Share Knowledge And Advice

Another primary function of IT is to provide technical advice and resolve queries. A knowledge hub on the IT intranet means you can share that knowledge using a self-service approach.

Whether it's tips on software use, updates on virus threats, or FAQs, the knowledge hub has all the answers. Employees know where to go for help when faced with an IT emergency or a problem encountered out-of-hours.

Many companies also use how-to and explainer videos in IT knowledge hubs. Employees can diagnose and troubleshoot their own problems. And video is also useful for training workers and onboarding new recruits.

Colleagues in other teams can directly access the information needed. This speeds up the overall IT effort and frees up your staff to get on with other vital tasks.

The knowledge hub also acts as a central resource for IT staff. Store your team's important information in one space for any time, anywhere access. Whether it's current project upgrades, purchasing guidelines, or the technology plan, IT staff know where to go for updates.

3. Get Critical Messages Out On Time

Need to notify the workforce of system availability? An IT intranet ensures time-critical announcements get out to the right people. Previously, these announcements were usually distributed via an all-staff email. But in the overflowing inboxes of employees, there's no guarantee they get opened, let alone read.

It's a different story with a notification on the IT intranet. You can use a variety of channels to ensure the message gets through. If all workers are affected, then highlight it with a hot news button on the intranet's homepage.

And for a more targeted approach, send an instant message (IM) via the team chat to the relevant staff. Proven to be more engaging, IMs can be sent direct to desktops or mobile devices. You can even add attachments. Furthermore, conversations are stored on the IT intranet, making them trackable and searchable.

4. Build Personal Relationships

IT professionals often remain out of sight, working behind the scenes. An IT intranet provides the opportunity to improve visibility and build personal relationships.

Many IT intranets use online staff directories with photos and short biographies, including interests outside work. Colleagues in other departments can put a face to the name and develop social connections with their IT counterparts.

Staff profiles are an excellent vehicle for highlighting that the IT department is about people and not just computers.

5. Showcase Achievements

Use the IT intranet to showcase your achievements and boost your profile internally.

Have you completed that successful rollout of new software? Make sure the rest of the organization gets to hear all about it on the IT intranet. A feature on the intranet's news page or a vlog from the CIO ensures the IT corporate contribution is recognized. This organizational recognition is important on two levels. The public acknowledgment of a job well done will be well-received by IT staff. And perhaps more importantly, senior executives will also be made aware of the IT contribution to corporate goals.

6. Improve Collaboration And Joint Working

Most corporate projects require the input of IT to achieve success. However, often IT is only involved at the eleventh hour when key decisions have already been made.

An IT intranet helps support joint working across the board. Alongside an enhanced internal profile, the IT intranet offers several collaboration tools, making it easier to work together. Online forums and project spaces connect staff even if they are located in different states or time zones. In today's digital workplaces where more employees, including IT, work remotely, forums are an ideal solution.

Intranet-enabled project forums are online platforms for information sharing, brainstorming, and team collaboration. They make it easier for IT to be involved at an early stage. Dynamic, real-time discussions replace long project meetings. And IT staff can logon and contribute when it's relevant and convenient.

The organization will benefit from the insights and contribution of IT. And it means the expertise and time of the IT professional are maximized.

7. Breakdown Silos

The improved collaboration that flows from the IT intranet will, in turn, lead to the breakdown of silos. Speedy resolution of IT issues, enhanced internal customer service alongside shared knowledge and experiences lead to better inter-team relationships.

IT will no longer be a faceless function that's separate from the rest of the organization. The team will be fully integrated with all company departments and operations.

8. Improve Metrics

Demonstrating the value of IT to the organization can be tricky without data. An IT intranet allows you to collect a variety of metrics to justify your costs.

Automated helpdesk tickets provide a wealth of data, including demand, response times, and productivity savings. Make sure you ask for user feedback on the quality of service using slider scales for quick and easy analysis.

The popularity of IT intranet content is another critical metric. Views, comments, and most frequently used pages all provide valuable data on the importance of the IT contribution.

Surveys are also useful in this context. Undertake regular pulse surveys to ensure you are providing a responsive service. And canvass colleagues' views on IT priorities and infrastructure improvements. Periodic surveys will help you achieve improved customer satisfaction and develop internal loyalty.

9. Enhance Communications

Whether it's inter- or intra-team communications, the IT intranet ensures you have control over IT messaging. Proactive as well as reactive communications are easy with an IT intranet.

Alongside IMs, news feeds and knowledge hubs, the best IT intranets also include a blog. These are great platforms for developing two-way conversations with users. Share information, tips, and good practice, or invite feedback and comments. Getting up close with your customers improves your service and demonstrates ROI.

And it also makes for more efficient and effective working within the IT team. The IT intranet is available 24/7, supporting remote workers, those in off-site locations, or out-of-hours personnel. Regardless of the time of day or location, IT professionals can access all the tools and information they need.

10. Cost-Effective Solution

And the really good news is that the IT intranet is a cost-effective solution. Cloud-based, the IT intranet is available to unlimited users with unlimited data storage. And all for just a modest monthly fee. It's a transparent cost structure, so there are no hidden extras.

IT Intranet: Key Messages

So, when it comes to the benefits on offer with an It intranet, here are the main takeaways:

More efficient working: automated helpdesk tickets, streamlined processes, and improved cross-team communication contribute to more effective operations

Enhanced service: improve your service to users with surveys and ongoing dialog

Value-added internal communications: raise your profile and take control of IT messaging with enhanced communication

Better internal relationships: breakdown departmental silos and create more opportunities for IT to collaborate with colleagues

Enhanced knowledge sharing: provide users and the IT team with better access to information, tips, and guidance

Demonstrate your value: increased visibility and improved customer metrics allow you to demonstrate the ROI of the IT contribution more easily.

IT Intranet: Adding Value

It's time IT professionals let the rest of the organization know the significant contribution they make. From increased revenue and reduced costs thru to higher customer satisfaction, IT plays a critical role. The IT intranet will improve communications and raise your profile across the business.

And all these great benefits also apply to your team's internal workings. Streamlined processes, automated workflows, and improved knowledge sharing will have a positive impact on your costs. The IT department will be more productive, leading to increased revenue and a better bottom line.

When the pressure is on every department to demonstrate value to the organization, IT intranets could make all the difference.

To find out more, get in touch with the team at MyHub. Our easy-to-learn, fast-to-launch cloud intranets are used by IT departments in industries across the globe. Book a demo today or sign up for a 14-day free trial

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IT Intranet: How To Improve Service And Boost Your Profile

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IT departments are the powerhouse behind every successful business; but, their contribution is often underappreciated. Sometimes written off as being nerdy and uncool, IT departments fly under the radar until something goes wrong. However, the Covid pandemic has done much to raise the profile of IT services.

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This free service starts with a design audit of all your pages, and then followed up with a one-to-one call where we’ll give feedback and practical suggestions to make your site rock!

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All You Need To Know In One Concise Resource

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The Complete Intranet Design Guide: All You Need To Know

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Are you looking to set up an intranet in your company? Then MyHub's complete intranet design guide is essential reading.

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Automate Your Forms With An Intranet: myhubintranet.com/approval-forms

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Learn about the great intranet features that your all-in-one solution is packed with.

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Internal Control: 5 Ways An Intranet Solution Will Improve Financial Control

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Can Workplace Technology Help With Collaboration?

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Can Workplace Technology Help With Collaboration?

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Workplace technology has undoubtedly transformed the way we work. When the first desktop computers were introduced in the 1970s, they were the size of modern-day TVs. Fast forward 50 years, and we are carrying around in our pockets sophisticated smartphone computers. Technology has impacted on every aspect of our working lives, and the coronavirus pandemic has brought this into sharp focus. With lockdowns in force across much of the globe, millions of us are now working from home. Businesses have been able to maintain operations despite the crisis. And this would have been unthinkable even 20 years ago.

However, for those companies looking to adopt an integrated approach to the digital workplace, it can be a confusing space. The sheer number of apps and software options for all manner of business processes makes for a bewildering choice.

In fact, for most businesses, workplace technology starts with an identified pain point and ends with the adoption of a software solution. But for users, all too often, this results in multiple apps, passwords, and screens along with incompatible software. Messy, unproductive, and a big time-waster, there has to be a better way, right? Well, if you are looking for workplace technology that's adaptable, flexible, and supports productivity, then an intranet could be the answer. So, let's take a look at some common issues facing businesses and examine how an intranet offers a solution.

Improve Team Communications

Internal communications are at the heart of every successful business. Workplace technology has transformed the way we receive messages and communicate with each other. But for employees, it can be a chaotic experience. Too many emails and communications channels, combined with more flexible and remote working, requires a different approach from businesses. It's far too easy for important messages to get lost and for staff to feel disconnected.

Among others, Gallup has confirmed the poor performance of many businesses on the team communications front. Gallup's research found that just 13 percent of employees strongly agree their organization's leadership communicates effectively with the rest of the company.

So, how can an intranet help? There is a range of tools available within the intranet to support communications. Here we highlight just a few.

The first is the newsfeed feature. The universal reach of the intranet means that all staff receive the same timely news and updates. It could be corporate events, team updates, or industry-wide news; the intranet presents an engaging and eye-catching digest. And the user can personalize the newsfeed to reflect their own team, role, or interest-based preferences.

Data from the US Census tells us that the average 500+ employee company has more than 12.5 office locations. And even before the current pandemic, the numbers regularly working remotely were increasing - an incredible 173 percent since 2005. In this context, providing visible and decisive leadership is easy with an intranet blog or video message. Leaders can provide authentic, personal messages directly to staff. And by allowing comments and feedback, they can develop two-way conversations regardless of location.

The use of instant messaging in our personal lives has exploded. Whether it's Messenger or WhatsApp, for example, most of us use it daily to connect with friends and family. However, instant messaging also has a vital part to play in team communications. The informal, accessible nature of instant messaging means staff are more likely to read and respond quickly to messages.

So, whether it's to speedily resolve issues, support water cooler conversations, or to share updates, instant messaging is hard to beat.

Develop Organizational Knowledge Management And Knowledge Transfer

The digital workplace means that businesses are swamped with more information and data than ever before. Collecting, managing, and sharing all that corporate knowledge is a major headache. Furthermore, the baby boomer generation is now retiring in large numbers. While millennials are changing jobs more frequently than other generations. Workplace technology that captures and transfers all that knowledge before it walks out the door has to be a priority.

Indeed, the benefits of good knowledge management also extend to maintaining a competitive advantage and adding value to customers. In the Global Deloitte survey, over 80 percent of Deloitte Knowledge users reported that sharing knowledge leads to competitive advantage and adds real value to customers.

Once again, an intranet has much to offer in this space. Bring together all your corporate knowledge, from databases, manuals, and presentations through to standard operating procedures and more, into a centralized resource. Supported by an advanced search function, staff members have at their fingertips a comprehensive digital library of knowledge.

And when it comes to capturing company knowledge, then the intranet has an integrated set of tools to do just that. Surveys, quizzes, project spaces, and blogs enable you to draw out knowledge and insights across the business.

Similarly, the intranet's suite of tools will facilitate corporate knowledge sharing. Take your pick from wikis, blogs, vlogs, podcasts, and newsfeeds. Create a sidebar design feature or a hot topic button for easy access to the top links. And well-designed online newsletters will keep everyone informed with engaging content.

Involve Staff More In Decision-Making

Did you know that disengaged employees cost US companies a whopping $550 billion a year? One sure-fire way to make employees feel appreciated and engaged is to involve them more in decision-making. Not only will it send an important message about how much you value their input, it will also lead to better decision-making. The different perspectives offered by staff on the front line who interact daily with customers will, in fact, strengthen decision-making.

The intranet's online surveys and snap polls make it easy to canvass views and opinions. Invite staff to input views on the new employee benefits package. Ask the team to contribute insights on the customer experience, or put the location of the Christmas party to a popular vote. An easy-to-set-up poll or survey means you can quickly gather feedback when it's needed.

Another possibility is an intranet-hosted online staff suggestion scheme. Senior managers don't have a monopoly on all the bright ideas in a company. The truth is everyone has a contribution to make. And many time or money-saving initiatives, as well as innovations and new ideas, have come from employees. Use your intranet to encourage staff to contribute their suggestions with a bright ideas blog. Workplace technology will, therefore, be involving staff in decision-making as well as promoting a culture of creativity and innovation.

Streamline Workflows And Approvals Processes

Traditional paper and email-based business processes could not only be slowing your business down; they may also cost you money. These old-school ways of getting things done may mean you are slow to react and take longer to get things done. By contrast, your competitors with fully automated processes are faster, more agile, and responsive. Workplace technology that streamlines processes could make all the difference.

Furthermore, paper and email systems are notoriously prone to errors and mistakes. We have all had that frustrating experience of a form going missing or information being misfiled. Automated workflows and approvals processes cut down on the potential for errors and also speed up the process.

Use the intranet's intuitive forms builder to create your online processes. And if you use G Suite or Office 365, then you can embed the form creation app directly on your intranet page. In this way, you can also provide contextual information or guidance notes relevant to the form.

So, whether it's to report monthly sales figures, request a vacation, or submit an invoice for payment, the user just completes the online form. It's as simple as that. And the intranet then automatically routes the form to the correct staff member for action.

What's more, it's much easier for managers to retain oversight of where things are at in the system. This means any blockages can be identified and dealt with as quickly as possible. With traditional approvals processes, it's not uncommon for hold-ups to occur when a key employee is out of the office. They could be attending a sales conference, or checking in on valued customers. However, the cloud nature of the intranet means that staff can approve processes at any time and from any location. So, a three-day road trip to visit customers upstate does not mean that workflows grind to a halt. The employee can log on to the intranet and complete the process even when out of the office.

Increase Opportunities For Staff To Collaborate

The increase in remote working as a result of the coronavirus pandemic has put the spotlight on team collaboration. Workplace technology that supports collaboration is a critical issue at the moment. However, for businesses with multiple offices, it will continue to be important long after the pandemic is over.

The truth is very few tasks, and processes can be completed without one or more staff working together. Workplace technology has provided opportunities for staff to do just that regardless of their location. And the benefits to the business include more innovation, better problem-solving, and improved efficiencies.

Cross-team collaboration is really a no-brainer, and the intranet makes it easy to implement in your business. You can set up intranet-based project or team collaborative workspaces. Staff can come together to share insights, data, and files. Using embedded G Suite or Office 365 apps, they can collaborate in real-time on documents, spreadsheets, and presentations. The intranet's straightforward admin tools restrict access to the collaborative spaces to only those that need it.

Another tool to support team collaboration is instant messaging. You can set up social media style #channels for staff to follow. Within the channels, employees can share messages and upload files, data, or videos. And the #channels can be organized by roles, teams, locations, or industry trends.

What's more, the intranet also allows staff to identify and connect with potential collaborators through an online staff directory. Visual and engaging, the employee directory includes areas of expertise and current work projects alongside a biography. Employees can easily locate internal subject experts. Let's say, for example, you are setting up a cross-team project looking at improving the customer experience. You can quickly identify potential candidates from across the business using the employee directory.

Workplace Technology: The Intranet Solution

The Covid-19 crisis has undoubtedly created many challenges in the workplace. In a very short space of time, we have all had to adapt to new ways of working and operating. Many companies have spent the weeks in lockdown hastily searching and implementing solutions to stay afloat.

The typical pain points we have identified in this post apply to businesses struggling with the current crisis. Many will continue to be felt long after the pandemic is over.

An intranet, however, can support your business during the good times, as well as the bad. What's required in today's workplaces is a versatile, flexible solution. And here's what else the intranet has to offer:

Easy to set up and simple to use

Comprehensive suite of tools and features under one roof

Customizable with your company brand and specific requirements

Integrates with other systems such as Salesforce, G Suite, and Dropbox

Secure and reliable - high uptime and availability as well as SSL encryption

Cost-effectiveness - unlimited data storage and users for one affordable monthly fee

Single sign-on using Okta - gateway access to a fully integrated, flexible solution.

Are you ready to take the next step? Our all-in-one intranet software has been designed with the non-technical person in mind. Sign up today for a free demo of MyHub's beautifully designed and easy to use intranet software. Or why not try out our software in your business with a no-obligation 14-day trial.

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Can Workplace Technology Really Help Us To Collaborate More?

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Workplace technology has undoubtedly transformed the way we work. When the first desktop computers were introduced in the 1970s, they were the size of modern-day TVs. Fast forward 50 years, and we are carrying around in our pockets sophisticated smartphone computers.

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Marketing Intranet: How To Get More For Your Marketing Buck

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Marketing Intranet: How To Get More For Your Marketing Buck

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With increased pressure on marketing budgets, companies are looking for new ways to maximize their ROI. Leveraging a marketing intranet will help your organization to get more for its marketing buck. Streamlined business processes, better sharing of information, comprehensive customer information, and market research make your marketing budgets go further. Plus, you'll find a ton of additional business benefits on offer, making it an all-round solution.

Here's everything you need to know about marketing intranets and how to get more bang for your marketing buck.

Streamlined Processes Through Your Marketing Intranet

More efficient, streamlined processes on the marketing intranet are a great way to reduce overheads. Let's look at a standard marketing task of preparing a product launch and explore how the intranet enhances the process.

Data Gathering And Analysis: Often requiring the input of several teams, the marketing intranet's collaborative workspaces make this first phase of a product launch easy. All relevant data is shared and discussed in one platform. No more long meetings or emailed updates.

Developing Marketing Materials: Brainstorming ideas can also take place in a collaborative workspace. Use embedded Google Workspace or Office 365 apps for real-time collaboration on documents. Several employees can work on a draft at the same time. Think about all the effort that goes into collating comments on drafts and the amount of email this generates. The marketing intranet reduces these coordination costs and provides an overall speedier process.

Product Launch: Informing colleagues about product launches (or other key events) is simple with the marketing intranet's corporate calendar. Alert all staff to a product launch through a 'hot news' button on the marketing intranet's homepage. Publishing product information on the intranet ensures customer-facing personnel provide an immediate, knowledgeable response to clients' queries.

So, whether it's a product launch or a new marketing strategy, there's plenty of potential savings to be achieved. Streamlined and collaborative processes on the intranet equal more bang for your marketing buck.

Better Information Sharing

The marketing department is often a hub for critical company-wide information. The savings possible from better dissemination of information are significant.

With a marketing intranet, you can easily share corporate branding and company-wide marketing information. These include graphics, logos, adverts, email templates, and case studies, plus customer feedback. A document management system coupled with advanced search enables workers to source information directly from the marketing intranet. This frees up marketing staff from responding to requests and queries. Instead, they can get on with other essential marketing jobs. Also, employees can be confident the marketing intranet is current and up to date. The possibility of making embarrassing or costly errors with staff using incorrect or outdated branding materials is reduced.

The marketing intranet's company calendar is also a great communication tool. We have all had experience with siloed departments and a lack of coordination. We know of one marketing department that scheduled a major push for a current product. However, they discovered at the eleventh hour that R&D instead had plans to release a new version next month! These sorts of scenarios arise because of breakdowns in communication and the absence of a central alert system. The company calendar on the marketing intranet prevents these costly errors from happening.

Centralized Customer Information

A primary task for marketing is to undertake market research and be the customer's voice within the organization. The intranet is the obvious place to store and share relevant customer information. From feedback, Google Analytics, surveys, and case studies, the marketing intranet is the go-to resource. Everything is held in one central location for fast and easy access. The data also contains information on different products and services, geographical areas, or individual customers. Therefore, it will inform the work of several teams and not just marketing.

Furthermore, customers provide important feedback on your products and services. And they do so through a range of channels. It could be a Facebook comment, tweet, phone conversation, or email. Collecting all such interactions in one centrally held database on the marketing intranet ensures you have comprehensive customer profiles. And it's readily accessible to all staff.

Integrate Your CRM Platform With The Marketing Intranet

Some companies have taken their marketing intranet a step further and have integrated it with their customer relationship management (CRM) software. Salesforce is one of the most popular CRM systems. Using a simple web form, you can provide gateway access through your marketing intranet.

Salesforce software enables you to log, manage, and analyze all activity and every touchpoint with customers and prospects. With order histories, support calls, sales leads, and customized marketing, CRM software ensures businesses provide a comprehensive service.

However, Salesforce licenses can be expensive, especially for small businesses. And to get the most out of Salesforce, you have to keep it updated with data regularly. This data-inputting task usually falls to admin and support staff. Often these personnel are not using Salesforce to its full potential. And so, rather than buying expensive licenses for support staff, a more cost-effective solution is to use an intranet web form. This ensures team members can connect to Salesforce through the intranet using the same sign-on.

Creating a web form is simple. Use the marketing intranet's intuitive forms builder and follow the simple wizard. Next, map all the relevant Salesforce fields that you need into your customized form fields. All the data is conveyed to Salesforce through the online form. There's no need for any complicated code to connect the two platforms. Even better, you won't have to buy unnecessary Salesforce licenses. Marketing can continue to enjoy the benefits of the personalized, digital marketing platform that Salesforce offers minus a hefty price tag. And the hassle factor of juggling different screens, logins, and passwords is also eliminated.

Salesforce Intranet: Save Money With A Winning Combination

Better Management Of Branding Materials

Improve access to all brand assets and marketing collateral with one central platform. Workers know exactly where to go for all resources needed to support a successful campaign. Whether it's case studies, customer personas, photos, logos, or color swatches, marketing has complete control over the management of these crucial assets. And you can easily restrict access to appropriate staff only.

Automated Marketing Processes

We have already touched on this, but automated processes are such a game-changer, they deserve their own section.

Automated approvals processes and workflows save you time. Faster and more accurate, automated processes mean staff can focus on delivering your marketing strategy. The team won't be distracted by responding to queries or chasing updates. Whether it's a content sign-off request or external branding query, online automated forms are more efficient and effective.

Easy Access To Comprehensive Market Research And Client Data

The marketing department is also responsible for conducting market research on behalf of the business. The insights gained help build a clear understanding of what customers really want. Market research allows managers to identify new opportunities. And it informs the process of product refinement and redevelopment. Plus, market research involves analyzing the competition to support superior product development and more efficient marketing techniques.

Market research is, therefore, a critical function for businesses. However, all too often, the results are not widely publicized throughout the company. Knowing what customers think and what competitors are doing is relevant for every member of the organization.

Publishing market research on the intranet gives all employees access to the results. Whether you are the receptionist or the CEO, staff can use the data to inform their daily work. And it ensures you deliver the right marketing messages to your target audiences. Alert employees to important market research news or updates through the intranet newsfeed and the integrated notifications feature.

Positive customer feedback and market research is also an excellent motivator for employees. Use it to build a strong company culture and a sense of purpose. This is especially important for those staff that perform supporting rather than customer-facing roles.

Idea Generation And Increased Collaboration

Marketing is all about implementing new and creative ideas to give your company a unique competitive edge.

Generating ideas is usually a collaborative process as two heads are better than one. Set up a project workspace on the marketing intranet to share insights, brainstorm ideas, and deliver effective idea management. Project workspaces simplify the process of collaborating with other departments. They make it easier to develop innovative ideas and get a product out to potential audiences. Use the project workspaces to gather feedback on a campaign, encourage problem-solving and share marketing best practices.

Google Workspace and Office 365 allow multiple staff to edit and comment on one document in real-time. Embed them directly in your marketing intranet for quick and easy access. You can also include explanatory notes and provide context directly on the intranet page. A marketing intranet not only saves time but also reduces coordination costs, helping your marketing budget go further.

Easy Collaboration With External Partners

And the benefits of the marketing intranet's collaboration tools extend beyond the internal team. It's possible to set up a portal or extranet to allow for easy collaboration with people outside the organization. You can share files, graphics, or images with designers and printers. Save time and hassle with the marketing intranet's streamlined, external collaborative processes.

Align Internal And External Branding

When your business operates in several markets and involves remote workers spread over wide geographical areas, brand consistency is challenging. How do you go about ensuring your brand is consistent across every region and department? The marketing intranet offers the solution.

All corporate brand assets and materials are held in one central space. And a set of guidelines sets out for workers how these assets should be used. The marketing intranet means that colleagues can share best practice insights and knowledge on what works best for which customers. A centralized platform simplifies the alignment of internal and external branding. And it gives marketing control over the management of branding assets in all formats.

Enhanced Internal Communications

Many companies have set up a marketing blog on their intranet to enhance internal communications. Alongside internal marketing updates, you can share external blog posts so employees know what's going out to customers. Also, use the blog to publicize press releases and product updates, and everyone in the organization will be on the same page. What's more, the marketing intranet is the perfect company-wide platform to celebrate marketing's achievements and successes.

Employee recognition is a great motivator for staff across the business. All the best marketing intranets publish positive customer feedback and testimonials. It's an excellent vehicle for acknowledging employees' efforts and demonstrating their value to customers and the whole organization.

Another option used by many businesses is a dedicated # channel on the intranet's team chat or instant messaging feature. Use the channel for super-fast responses to employees' queries. And keep them informed with timely updates on all the latest marketing news and events.

Marketing Intranet For Increased ROI

A marketing intranet means you can manage all marketing activities in one integrated, comprehensive digital solution.

Here's a summary of how marketing intranets can impact the bottom line and deliver more bang for your marketing buck.

Improve your internal communications and celebrate your achievements.

Take control of brand assets and marketing collateral.

Centralize customer information and market research.

Integrate your marketing intranet with your CRM for a powerful combination.

Enhance collaboration opportunities with internal and external partners.

Share marketing information and assets more easily.

Automate approvals processes for more efficient workflows.

Additional Marketing Intranet Business Benefits

The scenarios that we've looked at in this article are not exhaustive. Nor are they confined to the marketing department alone. Other parts of your business will benefit equally from the marketing intranet's capabilities and its advantages. These include:

Increased workforce productivity.

Improved team integration and collaboration.

Upgraded internal communications.

Less time spent on sourcing and updating organizational information.

Want to get more for your marketing buck and improve your bottom line across the whole organization? Then contact the team at MyHub. Our all-in-one intranet software comes packed with all the great features essential to an effective marketing intranet. Beautifully designed, easy to set up and manage, marketing departments across the globe use MyHub's cloud intranets.

Sign up for a free demo or 14-day trial and get started on your marketing intranet today.

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Marketing Intranet: How To Get More For Your Marketing Buck

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With increased pressure on marketing budgets, companies are looking for new ways to maximize their ROI. Leveraging a marketing intranet will help your organization to get more for its marketing buck. Streamlined business processes, better sharing of information, comprehensive customer information, and market research make your marketing budgets go further.

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Designing an intranet can be a confusing process and it can be very hard to get started. That’s where this ultimate
intranet design guide
comes into play.

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The design guide is an essential resource for anyone planning to implement a new intranet. It's also required reading if you are looking to revitalize, revamp, or refresh an existing intranet.

Perhaps you are in the market for an intranet provider to help you realize your vision. The design guide can help you make a winning selection.

Written for the non-technical person, this resource will also support HR or Marketing staff tasked with implementing an intranet.

Why Intranet Design Is So Important

Before we move on, it's essential to understand why intranet design is so important.

Your intranet's overall look and feel has the power to grab users' attention and draw them in. It can spark creativity and foster collaboration. It can connect employees and turn the everyday task into something engaging and fun.

However, the stakes are high. A poorly designed intranet will have the opposite effect. A confusing, overloaded, and ugly intranet will see staff switch off. It's a wasted opportunity as well as investment.

With so much to lose, getting your intranet design right has to be a priority.

No Two Intranets Are Alike

When it comes to design, there is no one-size-fits-all intranet solution. Sure, there will be similarities. It could be layout, functionality, or scope. However, every organization is different, and so too is their intranet.

Furthermore, staff members will use the intranet differently depending on their job roles and team functions.

Employees use the intranet mainly to source information or collaborate with colleagues. Managers, however, use the intranet to engage workers with targeted communications.

Your intranet design needs to satisfy all the varying needs of employees.

And it also needs to meet the challenges of the modern digital workplace.

The global Covid-19 pandemic has fast-tracked the shift towards remote working. Companies have to pivot and rethink how they engage with their workforce in today's rapidly changing environment.

And they need to ensure employees have the tools available to remain productive even when working from home.

A mobile intranet is a minimum requirement. In fact, it's not so much a requirement as an expectation. Whether staff are on the go or working from home, they expect to continue working.

Versatile and flexible, the intranet is capable of meeting these competing demands. And your intranet design should make this vision a reality.

Intranet Templates Make Design Easy

And if you are pushed for time, then intranet design templates could be the perfect solution. This guide takes you through all you need to know.

In short, intranet templates come with in-built coding plus a basic design and graphics. The setup wizard makes it quick and easy to implement your customized intranet. Upload your logo, branding, and corporate colors to really put your company stamp on the intranet. And the good news is the intranet provider has already extensively tested the functionality. And that's one less major headache for you to worry about.

Therefore, design templates are a popular choice if you need to get your intranet up and running quickly.

Let Us Guide You

Use this guide to make your intranet deployment a smoother and quicker process.

Essential reading for those starting to deploy an intranet, this resource will also help businesses looking to revamp an existing intranet.

Either way, we understand the challenges that are involved. And you get the benefit of our experience as we guide you through the process from beginning to end.

So, let's get started.

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Intranet Design: The Ultimate Free Intranet Design Guide

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The design guide is an essential resource for anyone planning to implement a new intranet. It's also required reading if you are looking to revitalize, revamp, or refresh an existing intranet. Perhaps you are in the market for an intranet provider to help you realize your vision.

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How To Create An Intranet: A Beginner’s Guide

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How To Create An Intranet: A Beginner’s Guide

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For your company intranet portal

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Interview Template: The Smart Way To Recruit

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Interview Template: The Smart Way To Recruit

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An interview template is the best way to provide a consistent format and ensure that all candidates are on a level playing field.

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Fact Or Fiction? What Employers Need To Know About Stereotypes Of Millennials