Intranet – Did You Mean “Internet”?

It's hard to tell the difference between the words Internet and intranet. What difference do two letters make, anyway? You'd be surprised to find out that it means everything when trying to pinpoint your internal marketing strategies. Linguistics offers the key to understanding the differences between the two words.

Splitting the word "Internet" into two parts leaves us with the syllables inter and net. Inter is a verb meaning to "put in the earth, bury"[i]. Net is an abbreviation of network, which here would mean "an interconnected group of people". While some people have been known to turn into lifeless zombies staring at the computer screen, a more etymologically--sound meaning for inter also appears in the words "intercommunication" and "intermission". It is used as "between", meaning that the word "Internet" literally means a massive network of people connected by their computers.

Unfortunately, it not difficult to mix up the word with intranet. Intra means "within, inside, on the inside", which makes it a direct opposite of the Internet. Rather than being a complex network of people all over the world, the intranet is the internal network between systems within a company. Basically, it all comes down to the way a company communicates with their technology. Computerware might not be an expert in linguistics, but we are experts at helping you make full use of your intranet.

It's a Long Way Down
A strong intranet can help a company communicate ideas between each other quickly and effectively. Collaboration and proper interaction can lead to your company's business soaring to greater heights. However, some things can get lost along the line. Therefore, a leadership role is important to keep some semblance of order and to keep the company moving in the right direction. Once the ball gets rolling, it will keep going until it hits an obstacle, after which you simply remove the obstacle and keep it going. A reliable intranet will result in more efficiency in the workplace and more prompt responses.

Return to the Basics
When you start a company and marketing campaign, some people get distracted by their own products and forget what their goal is – to satisfy clients and consumers. Without them, why are you even running the campaign? It's important to always think about the client, because without them your business wouldn't even exist. You owe them everything, so it is necessary to set up a way for them to express their opinions of your products and services. More communication between the clients will result in better feedback and constructive criticism, which will allow you to let your company flourish.

Communication is Key
Without teamwork and collaboration, it is impossible for a marketing strategy to reach its full potential. The perfect place for this communication is your company's intranet, so it's important to keep it organized and secure. There are a ton of solutions available, but why settle for anything less than the best? Computerware can help you solidify your intranet strategy and improve interoffice communications.

If your company's intranet is stuck in the past, Computerware can thrust it into the future. Give us a call at (703) 821-8200 and see what we can do for you. Our managed IT services are sure to lay a solid foundation for your company's infrastructure, and keep you building higher and higher until your company stands tall above all others in your market!

[i] Definitions from the Online Etymology Dictionary