The Internet Tongue Twister

At Echidna, we’ve been asked more and more to build our clients an Intranet solution. Intranets are becoming an increasingly popular way for organizations to share information and resources internally, while saving paper, the environment and time, since all information is online.

Although Internet, Intranet and Extranet all seem like distinct terms – they are often used interchangeably and can be confusing. So what’s the difference? - The answer being accessibility. Of course, the Internet is accessible to anyone who has an Internet connection, but this is not the case for an Intranet or Extranet.

Intranet Solution – is a website that is built completely for an internal audience. An Intranet is often defined as a “private network” controlled by an organization. Intranet solutions are often helpful to increase interaction between staff of an organization. Intranet's are also a useful and environmentally friendly way to share information and resources. Intranet’s have restricted accessibility and require a username and password to view.

Extranet Solution – is sometimes an expansion of an Intranet solution. An Extranet often has restricted access, but is open to some users outside of the organization – example volunteers or members that could have a national reach.

Common users of an Intranet Solution would be staff, board memebers or members of an executive team where all meeting notes and minutes are kept internal. With an Intranet Solution staff could also view internal news and a list of all other employees. Common users of an Extranet Solution are customers of a large company that may have privileges like accessing coupons or deals by logging in, or volunteers for your organization who are spread across the country.