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What is a cloud intranet?

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Unlike traditional on-premises solutions, a cloud intranet is hosted and managed by an external vendor, relieving organizations of costly, time-consuming tasks such as maintenance, updates, and hosting. Accessible through web browsers from any internet-connected device, cloud intranets offer flexibility and remote access. They operate on a Software as a Service (SaaS) model, where organizations subscribe to both infrastructure and software, resulting in significant cost savings. Cloud intranets typically feature content management systems for easy information handling, support mobile devices, integrate AI and analytics for insights, and enable seamless connections with other software tools. This modern approach enhances scalability, security, and efficiency, making cloud intranets suitable for a variety of organizational needs.

Benefits of a cloud intranet

Scalability for Changing Organizational Needs
Cloud-based intranet software can easily scale up to accommodate an organization's changing needs, making them suitable for large enterprises.
Streamlined Setup and Rapid Deployment
Setting up a cloud intranet is typically straightforward, with a much shorter time to value compared to traditional on-premises solutions. There's no need for complex hardware installations or infrastructure management.
Resource Efficiency with Vendor-Managed Maintenance
Cloud intranets reduce the burden on an organization's IT resources. The vendor handles infrastructure maintenance and updates, freeing up internal IT teams to focus on more strategic tasks.
Automatic Updates for Up-to-Date Security
Updates are managed by the vendor, ensuring that the platform remains up-to-date and secure. Organizations benefit from the latest innovations (think AI) and security enhancements, without the need for manual intervention.
Robust Security Measures and Data Protection
Cloud intranet providers invest heavily in security measures, including data encryption, access controls, and regular security audits. This results in robust data protection, reducing the risk of data breaches.
High-Speed Access to Data and Resources
Cloud intranets offer high-speed access to data and resources since they are hosted on powerful servers and content delivery networks.
Cost Savings through Subscription Models
Cloud intranets often lead to cost savings due to reduced upfront capital expenses. Organizations pay for what they use through subscription models, which can be more cost-effective than maintaining on-premises infrastructure.

Staffbase named a Leader in the 2023 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Intranet Packaged Solutions

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Key features of a cloud intranet

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Vendor-Managed Maintenance and Hosting

The responsibility for maintenance, updates, and hosting of the intranet lies with the intranet vendor, relieving organizations of these time-consuming operational tasks.

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Web-Based Accessibility for Remote Users

Cloud intranets are accessible via a web browser from any internet-connected device, providing flexibility and remote access for users.

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Subscription-Based SaaS Model for Cost Efficiency

They follow a Software as a Service (SaaS) model, where organizations pay for both the infrastructure and software on a subscription basis, reducing upfront capital expenses.

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Content Management System for Easy Information Handling

Cloud intranets include a content management system that allows organizations to create, organize, and publish content easily, ensuring information is up-to-date and well-structured.

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AI and Analytics Integration for Strategic Insights

Cloud intranets incorporate AI and analytics features to provide insights into user behavior, content performance, and trends within the organization.

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Mobile-Friendly Design for Seamless Access

Cloud intranets are designed to work seamlessly on mobile devices, ensuring employees can access information and collaborate on smartphones.

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Integration Capabilities with Various Software Tools

They support integrations with other software and tools, such as productivity apps, project management tools and HRIS.

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Comprehensive Customer Support Services

Intranet vendors provide customer support, including technical assistance, training, and troubleshooting, to help organizations make the most of their intranet platform.

Why Staffbase’s cloud intranet

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The Staffbase cloud intranet is multichannel, allowing users to access content from anywhere — on desktop or mobile. And it’s one app that works for your whole organization, no matter how big.

It’s built for enterprises, fully customizable to your brand and your needs, and made to scale as you grow. Integration is open, flexible.
and frictionless, allowing you to plug, play, and extend your platform’s potential through our API portal.

Our innovation is your advantage. You’ll work smarter with secure and enterprise-ready AI, hosted by Microsoft. And our Smart Impact analytics will help you make better-informed decisions, show value, and drive real business impact.

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As a Microsoft partner, you can seamlessly integrate with popular digital workplace tech.

Trusted security standards and compliance certificates guaranteed to keep your data safe and sound.

We take pride in our outstanding customer support, for which we’ve received several industry awards and top online rankings.

Frequently asked questions about cloud intranet

The choice between a cloud intranet and an on-premise intranet depends on factors such as scalability, cost, and maintenance preferences. A cloud intranet offers greater scalability, flexibility, and accessibility, making it suitable for enterprises with dynamic needs and remote work requirements. On the other hand, an on-premise intranet provides more direct control over data and security, which may be preferred by companies with specific regulatory or compliance concerns. Ultimately, the decision should align with the organization's priorities, budget constraints, and IT strategy.
Companies typically build a cloud-based intranet by selecting a reliable cloud service provider such as Microsoft Azure, AWS, or Google Cloud. They then leverage platform-specific tools and services to deploy intranet applications, often using technologies like SharePoint or custom web development frameworks. The process involves designing a user-friendly interface, integrating essential collaboration tools, and ensuring secure access controls for employees accessing company resources and information remotely.
Yes, it is possible to migrate from an on-premise intranet to a cloud-based intranet. The migration process involves assessing existing infrastructure, selecting a suitable cloud service provider, and transferring data and applications to the cloud environment. This transition allows companies to benefit from increased scalability, flexibility, and accessibility while often reducing maintenance costs associated with traditional on-premise solutions. Staffbase hosting is provided by SSAE-16 certified providers Microsoft Azure, 1&1 Ionos, or SysEleven.

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