In fact, internal Web servers can be configured to allow users with average computer skills to up date information, such as their address, tax status, and retirement contributions, or to post simple announcements such as for company events. Using one of the various Web-based groupware packages, discussion groups can help employees discuss business issues or collaborate on projects and documents. In this chapter of Network Computing's Interactive Network Design Manual , we discuss the issues of deploying internal Web servers to give your employees universal access to information, including topics such as choosing a Web server software platform, securing your information and getting that information to the users. Since your organization's users are probably already using Netscape or another Web browser, they are familiar with that interface and that way of working. Deploying access to internal information in a way everyone can use only makes sense.
Most Web browsers are available on a variety of platforms.
These protocols give you threaded discussions and e-mail, andcover a majority of groupware functionality. Furthermore, by using the browser, you've eliminated almost all of the GUI development issues. This is no small accomplishment. With an intranet, a three-tier architecture is used. If you have specific needs for constantly updated information at the desktop, client-side solutions are available.