Single, secure sign-on. The complexity of delivering information or resources from multiple sources must be completely transparent to the user. Unified presentation of information from disparate sources. The portal must present a consistent look and feel to the user regardless of the original content source. A carefully constructed taxonomy.
Material is easier to navigate if it is arranged by content or function.
A taxonomy is a heirarchy of subjects or tasks, allowing such navigation. Access to information is customized to the person's role. Once the visitor provides valid authentication, they can access relevant, secure information from back-office systems based on authorization rules. Students may access transcript and grade information and customers may access their accounts or quickly place orders. A portal user expects to rearrange or change the interface and content to suit their own personal tastes and information needs.