A company’s intranet is an important tool that many workplaces rely on. Employees use it for projects and company announcements, while management needs it to connect with staff. We know an employee intranet is necessary, but what can you do to improve its overall use?
Or, even more important, what can you do to avoid the pitfalls that could damage your intranet or make it unproductive? Here are 8 do’s and don’ts to consider for an employee intranet.
8 Do’s for Your Employee Intranet
Want to improve the overall look and functionality of your employee intranet? Here’s how.
Do #1: Keep it Organized
Keep your intranet organized, user-friendly, and easy to navigate. Have clearly labeled categories, or use a search bar to help members find the information they need at a glance.
Do #2: Make it Easy to Use
The design of your intranet should be modern and intuitive. Avoid complex features and keep it simple with a clean, elegant look. Make it easy for non-tech natives to navigate successfully.
Do #3: Encourage Feedback
Allow employees to provide feedback and suggestions on how to improve the intranet. This can be done through comments, polls, or surveys. Opt for anonymous feedback from employees.
Do #4: Use It for Training
Choosing an employee intranet that offers great onboarding support is essential. Put training materials, tutorials, and other documents in an archived library that is easily accessible.
Do #5: Support Collaboration
Encourage team members to collaborate on projects, share ideas, and discuss topics in an open forum. This can help to create a sense of connection and trust between team members.
Do #6: Make it Secure
Make sure your intranet is secure. Use the necessary security measures to protect members’ confidential data and keep it safe from unauthorized access. Review your systems regularly.
Do #7: Post Up-to-Date Information
Your intranet should be updated regularly with the most current information. If information is outdated, it can create confusion and could lead to mistaken decisions or miscommunication.
Do #8: Embrace Technology
Your intranet should take advantage of the latest technology, such as cloud storage and mobile compatibility. Modern ethernets improve collaboration, as they can be accessed from anywhere.
8 Don’ts for Your Employee Intranet
If you want to avoid common employee intranet pitfalls, consider the following 8 “don’ts.”
Don’t #1: Overload it With Content
Organize the content of your intranet and only include what’s necessary. Too much content can be overwhelming and make it difficult to find information or could clog up and slow your system.
Don’t #2: Make it Boring
Your intranet doesn’t have to be limited to documents and text. Incorporate images, videos, and other media to make it visually appealing and engaging. Use infographics for some variety.
Don’t #3: Ignore It
Don’t forget about your intranet. Make sure to keep it updated and promote it to your employees to ensure everyone is getting the most out of it. Refer to it often to encourage ethernet usage.
Don’t #4: Keep it Siloed
Your intranet should be integrated with other tools and platforms. Link your intranet to tools like project management and CRM systems so all of the required information stays in one place.
Don’t #5: Restrict Access
Your intranet should be open to all of your employees and some managers. Make sure everyone has access to the information they need, no matter their location, job title, or device.
Don’t #6: Forget About the Search Engine
Make sure your intranet has a properly optimized search engine with logical keywords. Your employees will use these keywords to find content, so make sure these keywords make sense.
Don’t #7: Exclude Management
Your intranet can be a great tool for keeping management informed and encouraging teamwork. Use it to keep managers updated on projects, tasks, deadlines, and other important information.
Don’t #8: Leave it Unmonitored
Be sure to monitor your intranet periodically. Monitor user activity and look for ways to make it more efficient. Restrict access to previous employees to avoid any problems with your systems.
In Conclusion…
By following these do’s and don’ts, you can make sure that your employee intranet remains as a powerful tool to improve communication, collaboration, and efficiency. If you take care to avoid the “don’ts,” you’ll increase workplace productivity and create a more connected workplace.
Image Source: Unsplash
HR Future Staff Writer