To make Internet resources more accessible, netropreneurs started developing web sites that concentrate information for users. From this idea arose the concept of the Internet portal - a tool for managing the massive flood of online information and utilizing a new generation of management tools. Now, portals can provide a competitive edge for managers who use them to obtain business information, communicate, and organize daily activities. According to one review it is their ability to deliver content in a useful way, facilitate communication, and create a sense of community among users. These services bring users to the portal over and over again.
Many popular portals are free services that generate revenue by carrying banner ads.
These portals can be accessed over the Internet from any location at any time. Individuals or organizations needing specialized applications, or access to proprietary data, can implement custom-designed portals from firms such as Plumtree, SAP, and Oracle. These systems can interface with a firm's existing information system to deliver information to selected users. C.O.P.E. C - Consolidate time and information management tools as much as possible. O - Organize time and tasks with as few tools as possible.