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| Definition |
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An intranet is a private network used by people in an organization, like the state government. Intranets use the same types of hardware and software as the Internet. Put more simply, an Intranet is like a group of Web sites used within an organization. It puts everyone in the organization on the same page.
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| GovNet |
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GovNet is the name given to the Intranet used by the state of Oregon. GovNet gives agencies a centralized online space to store their valuable knowledge and information. And it is available using a simple Web browser.
GovNet can help us avoid confusion and fear during events, such as the attack of September 11, 2001. In the aftermath of that attack, the state of Oregon discovered its lack of ability to send crucial updates to state employees in a timely manner. With GovNet, state agencies can quickly post critical information where employees can easily get it.
GovNet requires a state employee user ID and password for access. Employees can use GovNet from their homes or their offices, as long as they have Internet access. This allows them to get access to information at any time.
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| Benefits |
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Improves Collaboration
GovNet provides some unique opportunities for agencies to share information and knowledge. When more than one agency works on a project, each agency may keep their own copy of a document. Editing all the copies of documents is duplicate work. As a result, each agency´s version may vary, leading to confusion among project members about which copy is most current and accurate. This slows down the project.
GovNet provides access to a collaboration tool called QuickPlace. QuickPlace stores all project-related information in a single location so all project members can view it. This reduces the amount of duplicate work and the number of versions of project documents, helping project teams work more easily.
Increases Productivity
Agencies pass on a lot of information through memos, reports, conversations and e-mail. Storing documents, reports, and other materials on the Intranet puts them in a central location open to all agencies. Staff members don't need to know who developed the material to be able to use it. By typing a few words into the GovNet search engine they can find the information they need – reducing unnecessary recreation of that work. This frees their time to work on vital projects.
Improves Communication
For the first time, the State has a single communication channel for all State employees. No single e-mail or telephone system has existed for State offices because they are spread throughout the State. Therefore, Oregon has been unable to send messages to all employees at the same time. With GovNet, messages can be put on all employee GovNet portal pages.
Just as GovNet portals have places for State content, they also have places for agency and departmental content. This allows agencies and departments to send agency or departmental news and other important information to their employees.
GovNet uses Web portals to make finding shared information easier. State employees can customize their portals to display the most relevant information to them. Each time an employee opens their GovNet Web portal, it shows them the most up-to-date information available. Employees have quicker and simpler access to the information they need most.
Promotes Teamwork
Sharing information helps State agencies work as a team to provide better services to the public. For example, the Fish and Wildlife Department can share great fishing locations with the Tourism Commission, drawing in more tourist business to boost the economy.
Saves Money
GovNet makes sharing information and resources easier for State agencies. This means less duplicate work and higher productivity.
By putting documents on the GovNet, we can save the time and money we spend on printing and mailing. For items that are updated often or that have wide distribution, this can save a lot of money.
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