How to set up an intranet

1. 1 Identify the functionality you want, such as internal email, publishing and browsing information and diary scheduling.
2. 2 Involve employees in identifying information which would be useful to them or which is currently circulated on paper.
3. 3 Decide whether you need remote access or to make any part of the intranet available to outsiders (eg key customers).
4. 4 Make an inventory of your existing computer network, hardware and software.
5. 5 Assess your in-house skills in IT installation and maintenance and in intranet design.
6. 6 Decide the best approach - doing it yourself, buying a packaged solution, or using an external agency.
7. 7 Define your specifications and approach suppliers; ask for references, particularly if you will be using them to install, design or maintain your intranet.
8. 8 Assess solutions, including functionality, ease of use, security, maintenance and support, as well as initial and running costs.
9. 9 Design templates for intranet pages and a navigation system; ensure that your searching system copes with all document formats.
10. 10 Start the roll-out with the most useful and easily published content such as staff handbooks and general HR information.
11. 11 Allocate responsibility for publishing and maintaining each area; set up systems to ensure content will be kept up to date.
12. 12 Control any areas of your intranet which need to be restricted, such as confidential information, particularly if outsiders can access it.
13. 13 Develop a usage policy, including legal issues such as copyright.
14. 14 Promote the intranet to your employees; explain the benefits and provide appropriate training.
15. 15 Regularly review intranet usage and encourage suggestions; identify enthusiasts who will push the project forwards.

Cardinal rules