What is an Extranet?
An extranet is a private network of connected computers that uses internet protocols and standards, to share information with those outside of the organisation, such as suppliers and customers.
Here are 7 things you should know about extranets before you decide you do or don't need one:
1 - Extranets allow suppliers to work closer with the companies they supply. This allows the supplier to keep their customer's website up to date in terms of product images, prices and descriptions. Suppliers can also answer any questions from existing and potential customers about the suitability of a product.
2 - One popular use for extranets is for customer service departments. Online support, fixes, software patches, upgrades, downloads and knowledge bases are all part of the modern interactive helpdesk. An extranet allows existing customers to log into the supplier or manufacturer's website, and access this support. Customers can also log in to a retailer's website, and get the answers they need before purchasing.
3 - Depending on the type of company, existing customers may be able to log in to the extranet, and see their previous orders, they may even be able to purchase at a reduced price compared to first time buyers.
4 - Online training and certification is another area that makes good use of extranets. Visitors to your website might want to work their way through your online training programmes, and then be taken to another section of your website, managed by a dedicated examination company, in order to take the exam.
5 - Utilising extranets to trade with suppliers will allow your company to place and receive orders more quickly and efficiently. In addition, you can also save money, track orders and spending much more easily. You may even be able to get the best deals from suppliers. Less time will be spent in the process of ordering, and so other duties can be carried out, making the working day much more productive for all staff involved.
6 - As a supplier you can make it far easier for your clients to buy from you. This in turn is likely to can lead to cheaper costs for your clients, increased sales and so increased market share. As more and more suppliers take advantage of extranets, they will become more capable, and offer many more additional features as technology progresses.
7 - By far the biggest risk to an extranet is that of security. It is vital that all aspects of website and extranet security are covered, and the sufficient systems and procedures are in place, so that only the right authorised people have access to your website. If you don't have the relevant site security, and procedures in place, then your website, and company details could be compromised which would be bad for customers and suppliers, as well as your business. It is essential that suppliers or customers only have access to the information they need, rather than the whole of the company data. Ask an experienced Extranet Development Newcastle company about making your extranet more secure.
Find out more about Extranet Development Newcastle with Rippleffect.com, by calling 0845 803 8381 today.
