Selected documents from the intranet can be copied to a public Web site. Developers of major corporate groupware systems, such as Lotus Notes, have developed new versions that allow some integration of existing groupware with HTTP applications on an intranet or the Web. A firm's intranet could be used to handle a wide variety of information management needs. Printing and distribution costs can be reduced when internal policies, tax research memos, billing systems, and client records are accessible with an intranet. Information previously photocopied and transferred through intra-office mail can be quickly disseminated to authorized individuals across the intranet.
Intranets also require additional training for the system administrators and users.
Over the next few years the costs of intranet implementation should decrease, while the benefits increase. Tax Law and Forms on the Web Many tax-related materials were added to the Web during the last two years, and this trend is expected to continue. Tax professionals now have access to a variety of Federal, state, and foreign tax resources. They can also engage in online discussions, subscribe to mailing lists, participate in professional associations, read current tax updates and topical articles, and contact vendors. Several important tax resources can be found on the Web.