The Intranet Design Guide
Not sure where to get started in designing your intranet?
Check out our easy step-by-step guide below.
Let us guide you through the process.
Intranet Design Made Simple
Deciding to go ahead with an intranet was the easy part, right? After all, whether it’s improved communications, more streamlined processes, or easier access to information, the intranet ticks all the boxes.
However, designing your intranet can be a daunting task.
There are many decisions to be made around the type of intranet, hosting options, organization, structure, plus content, and design. With so much to think about, it can be tough to get started.
And if technology isn’t really your thing, it can be even harder to kick-start your intranet. That’s where this intranet design guide comes into play.
So, if widget, cache, and malware sound like another language, then this guide is for you! Written in simple-to-understand and jargon-free terms, the design guide is non-technical. And where technical language is unavoidable, we clearly define what we mean.
This guide will show you that designing an intranet is a simple task. In fact, it’s so easy, you won’t need IT backup or a college degree in computers!
Click here to download this guide in PDF format
Step-By-Step Intranet Design Support
The guide is a comprehensive resource, covering everything you need to know about intranets. We provide helpful insights at every stage, from different intranet types and hosting options to security and training.
And we also look at all the latest intranet design best practices. This resource includes lots of practical examples and visuals that will excite and inspire you.
What’s Included In This Intranet Design Guide
Who Should Read This Guide
The design guide is an essential resource for anyone planning to implement a new intranet. It’s also required reading if you are looking to revitalize, revamp, or refresh an existing intranet.
Perhaps you are in the market for an intranet provider to help you realize your vision. The design guide can help you make a winning selection.
Written for the non-technical person, this resource will also support HR or Marketing staff tasked with implementing an intranet.
Why Intranet Design Is So Important
Before we move on, it’s essential to understand why intranet design is so important.
Your intranet’s overall look and feel has the power to grab users’ attention and draw them in. It can spark creativity and foster collaboration. It can connect employees and turn the everyday task into something engaging and fun.
However, the stakes are high. A poorly designed intranet will have the opposite effect. A confusing, overloaded, and ugly intranet will see staff switch off. It’s a wasted opportunity as well as investment.
With so much to lose, getting your intranet design right has to be a priority.
No Two Intranets Are Alike
When it comes to design, there is no one-size-fits-all intranet solution. Sure, there will be similarities. It could be layout, functionality, or scope. However, every organization is different, and so too is their intranet.
Furthermore, staff members will use the intranet differently depending on their job roles and team functions.
Employees use the intranet mainly to source information or collaborate with colleagues. Managers, however, use the intranet to engage workers with targeted communications.
Your intranet design needs to satisfy all the varying needs of employees.
And it also needs to meet the challenges of the modern digital workplace.
The global Covid-19 pandemic has fast-tracked the shift towards remote working. Companies have to pivot and rethink how they engage with their workforce in today’s rapidly changing environment.
And they need to ensure employees have the tools available to remain productive even when working from home.
A mobile intranet is a minimum requirement. In fact, it’s not so much a requirement as an expectation. Whether staff are on the go or working from home, they expect to continue working.
Versatile and flexible, the intranet is capable of meeting these competing demands. And your intranet design should make this vision a reality.
Intranet Templates Make Design Easy
And if you are pushed for time, then intranet design templates could be the perfect solution. This guide takes you through all you need to know.
In short, intranet templates come with in-built coding plus a basic design and graphics. The setup wizard makes it quick and easy to implement your customized intranet. Upload your logo, branding, and corporate colors to really put your company stamp on the intranet. And the good news is the intranet provider has already extensively tested the functionality. And that’s one less major headache for you to worry about.
Therefore, design templates are a popular choice if you need to get your intranet up and running quickly.
Let Us Guide You
Use this guide to make your intranet deployment a smoother and quicker process.
Essential reading for those starting to deploy an intranet, this resource will also help businesses looking to revamp an existing intranet.
Either way, we understand the challenges that are involved. And you get the benefit of our experience as we guide you through the process from beginning to end.
So, let’s get started.
Intranet Design Infographic
If you would like an overview of our intranet design guide, we have created a PDF infographic file summarizing the main points available here.
Further Reading
This further reading list will be an invaluable resource as it takes you through everything you need to know. We give you the benefit of our considerable experience in developing intranets and provide simple, easy-to-follow explanations, insights and advice.
Use this list to explore the latest intranet design best practice principles. Find out how pre-built intranet templates could well be the solution every time-pressed business owner is looking for. Discover how to ensure your intranet design is mobile friendly and optimized for use on smartphones and tablets. And learn about how to make your intranet interactive and fun so that users readily engage with the platform making for a more efficient and effective workplace.
These are just some of the insights available in this category so why not have a browse or use the search functionality to explore more about intranet design. With our comprehensive knowledge bank, you’ll soon discover that designing an intranet isn’t the mammoth task that perhaps you first thought it was.
Water Cooler Talk: Meaning, Benefits, Topics
Water cooler talk—those casual, spontaneous conversations between colleagues—has long been a staple of office life. But beyond friendly small talk, these informal chats deliver serious workplace benefits. From improving employee wellbeing to boosting collaboration and retention, the value of water cooler moments is undeniable. And in the age of hybrid work, keeping this cultural element alive has become both a challenge and a necessity.
This comprehensive guide by MyHub dives deep into the power of water cooler conversations, outlining their positive impact on company culture, innovation, and employee engagement. It covers everything from suitable discussion topics to what to avoid, and explains how light, social chats help build trust, reduce stress, and even enhance productivity.
For remote and hybrid teams, the post offers six actionable strategies to recreate the magic of water cooler talk in virtual spaces. From informal Slack channels and team video calls to random meetups and virtual coffee breaks, companies can use digital tools to foster connection—no matter where employees are based.
100 Smart Performance Review Questions To Ask
Performance reviews are more than just formal check-ins — they’re pivotal moments to inspire growth, provide direction, and foster stronger employee-manager relationships. When done right, appraisals improve morale, engagement, and performance. But a successful review starts with asking the right questions. This blog post offers 100 smart, well-structured performance review questions tailored for both managers and employees.
The questions are grouped into meaningful categories like strengths, areas for improvement, teamwork, motivation, and professional development. Managers can use these to guide productive conversations, while employees can reflect and prepare meaningful input. The goal? Create a two-way dialogue that promotes trust, self-awareness, and actionable next steps.
From behavioral feedback to career aspirations, this comprehensive list ensures that every review becomes a strategic opportunity for development. You’ll also find helpful tips for managers, examples of performance review phrases, and a reminder that follow-up matters just as much as the meeting itself.
Top 10 HR Networking Groups for Professionals
Human Resources (HR) networking groups are essential platforms that help professionals stay informed and connected in an ever-evolving industry. These communities provide valuable opportunities for peer support, continuous learning, and professional growth. Whether you are a seasoned HR expert or new to the field, joining the right HR network can offer access to cutting-edge insights, practical resources, and career development opportunities.
This blog post highlights the top 10 HR networking groups that every professional should consider. From large organizations like the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and HR.com to niche communities such as the National Association of African Americans in Human Resources (NAAAHR), these networks offer a variety of resources, certifications, and events designed to enhance your HR skills. Many groups provide free memberships or affordable plans, ensuring access for professionals at all career stages.
Ultimately, active participation in HR networks allows professionals to navigate complex workplace challenges, share innovative ideas, and grow their careers. While membership fees and time commitment can be considerations, the benefits of networking—such as gaining peer insights, exploring new HR technologies, and advancing professional development—make these communities invaluable. Choosing the right networks aligned with your goals is key to maximizing their value.
11 Employee Needs Work Should Satisfy
Employees are the backbone of every successful organization, and meeting their workplace needs is crucial for fostering motivation, engagement, and retention. This blog post identifies 11 essential needs that work must satisfy — ranging from fair pay and job security to mental wellbeing and a sense of purpose. Addressing these needs helps create a positive culture where employees feel valued and supported.
The post explores how fundamental human needs, like safety, belonging, recognition, and growth, translate directly into workplace expectations. It highlights practical ways employers can support staff, such as providing secure working conditions, investing in professional development, and promoting work-life balance. These efforts not only improve employee satisfaction but also lead to tangible business benefits, including increased productivity and lower turnover.
By aligning employee needs with company goals, organizations can build a thriving, people-centered workplace. The article also ties these concepts back to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, demonstrating how basic human motivations remain relevant in modern work environments. Ultimately, prioritizing employee needs is a strategic investment in long-term business success.
Is An Enterprise Social Network Right For Your Business?
In today’s hybrid work environments, traditional communication methods often fall short in fostering effective collaboration. Enterprise Social Networks (ESNs) offer a solution by providing a secure, internal platform for employees to connect, share information, and collaborate in real-time. These platforms combine elements from popular social media sites, such as messaging, content sharing, and community building, tailored specifically for organizational use.
The blog post delves into the advantages of adopting an ESN, including improved internal communication, enhanced knowledge sharing, and the ability to break down departmental silos. By centralizing communication and collaboration tools, ESNs enable employees to access information and engage with colleagues more efficiently, regardless of their location. This leads to faster decision-making, increased productivity, and a more cohesive organizational culture.
However, the implementation of an ESN is not without challenges. The article also addresses potential drawbacks, such as the risk of information overload, the need for proper training, and the importance of establishing clear guidelines to ensure the platform is used effectively. By weighing these factors, organizations can make informed decisions about whether an ESN aligns with their communication and collaboration needs.
10 Ways To Build A Strong Work Community
A strong workplace community is essential for employee engagement and organizational success. It goes beyond company culture, focusing on creating a shared sense of purpose and mutual trust among employees. Such communities are characterized by open communication, collaboration, and a supportive environment where team members feel valued and connected.
The blog outlines ten practical and cost-effective strategies to build a robust work community. These include prioritizing effective onboarding to ensure new hires feel welcomed, encouraging open communication to foster transparency, and celebrating achievements to recognize contributions. Additionally, establishing regular team rituals and providing opportunities for social interactions can strengthen bonds among colleagues.
Implementing these strategies can lead to increased productivity, reduced turnover, and a more positive work environment. By focusing on building relationships and trust, organizations can create a workplace where employees are motivated, engaged, and committed to shared goals.
Destructive Criticism at Work: Examples and How to Deal With It
Criticism is an integral part of professional development, but not all feedback is beneficial. Constructive criticism aims to guide and improve performance, offering specific, actionable suggestions delivered respectfully. In contrast, destructive criticism is harmful, often manifesting as personal attacks or vague, non-specific comments that undermine confidence and morale.
The blog post emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs of destructive criticism, such as a focus on personal attributes rather than actions, a lack of helpful suggestions, and a tone that is more accusatory than supportive. It highlights the detrimental effects this type of feedback can have on individuals and teams, including decreased morale, increased conflict, and hindered collaboration.
To address destructive criticism, the article provides practical strategies for both recipients and deliverers of feedback. These include fostering a culture of open communication, setting clear expectations for feedback delivery, and implementing training programs to enhance emotional intelligence and constructive communication skills within teams.
Poor Leadership: 10 Tell-Signs And Tips On How To Cope
Poor leadership can have detrimental effects on both individuals and organizations, leading to low morale, high turnover, and decreased productivity. Recognizing the signs of ineffective leadership is the first step toward addressing these issues.
The blog post outlines ten tell-tale signs of bad leadership, including poor communication, lack of recognition, micromanagement, and a “my way or the highway” mentality. These behaviors can create a toxic work environment and hinder team collaboration.
To mitigate the impact of poor leadership, the article offers practical tips such as fostering open communication, setting clear expectations, and promoting a culture of appreciation. By implementing these strategies, organizations can work towards creating a more positive and productive workplace.
9 Team Building Challenges And Ways To Overcome Them
Building cohesive and high-performing teams is a common goal for many organizations. However, several challenges can impede this objective, including lack of trust, poor communication, role confusion, and interpersonal conflicts. These issues can lead to decreased productivity, low morale, and a toxic work environment if not addressed promptly.
The blog post identifies nine such challenges and provides actionable strategies to overcome them. For instance, fostering trust can be achieved by setting clear expectations and promoting regular communication. Addressing role confusion involves defining roles and responsibilities explicitly, ensuring that each team member understands their contributions to the group’s objectives.
By implementing these strategies, organizations can create a supportive and collaborative environment where team members feel valued and motivated. The post emphasizes the importance of proactive leadership in recognizing and addressing these challenges to maintain a harmonious and productive team dynamic.
8 Strategies For Managing Organizational Politics
Organizational politics are an inherent aspect of workplace dynamics, often perceived negatively due to associations with manipulation and self-serving behaviors. However, when understood and managed effectively, these politics can be harnessed to foster collaboration and drive organizational change.
The blog post delves into the root causes of organizational politics, such as power imbalances, competition for resources, and individual ambitions. Recognizing these factors is crucial for leaders aiming to mitigate negative impacts and promote a more cohesive work environment.
To address these challenges, the article outlines eight actionable strategies, including promoting transparency, encouraging open communication, and establishing clear organizational structures. By implementing these approaches, organizations can transform potentially detrimental political behaviors into opportunities for growth and innovation.
Understanding Employee Attrition: What It Means For Your Business
Employee attrition refers to the reduction in a company’s workforce due to voluntary or involuntary departures, retirements, or deaths, without immediate replacement. While some attrition is natural, a high rate can indicate underlying issues within the organization. Understanding and monitoring attrition is crucial for maintaining organizational health and productivity.
The blog post from MyHub Intranet distinguishes between employee attrition and turnover. Turnover involves replacing departing employees, often incurring significant costs related to recruitment and onboarding. In contrast, attrition results in a net decrease in staff, which may or may not be beneficial, depending on the context. Recognizing the differences helps businesses develop appropriate HR strategies.
To manage attrition effectively, organizations should calculate their attrition rate using the formula: (Number of Attritions / Average Number of Employees) x 100. Analyzing the types of attrition—voluntary, involuntary, and internal—can reveal patterns and areas for improvement. Addressing factors such as career development opportunities, leadership quality, and workplace culture can help reduce unwanted attrition.
17 Sure-Fire Ways To Improve Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is a cornerstone of success in both personal and professional realms. The blog post from MyHub Intranet delves into 17 practical strategies to enhance communication skills, emphasizing the importance of clear, concise, and empathetic interactions.
Key techniques highlighted include active listening, where giving full attention to the speaker fosters understanding; seeking feedback through methods like the ‘Start, Continue, Stop’ approach to identify areas of improvement; and being mindful of non-verbal cues such as body language and eye contact, which significantly impact message delivery.
By implementing these strategies, individuals can build stronger relationships, avoid misunderstandings, and convey their ideas more effectively. Continuous practice and self-awareness are essential in mastering the art of communication, leading to improved collaboration and success in various aspects of life.
Personal Introduction – The Ultimate Guide
Introducing oneself effectively is a crucial skill in both professional and personal settings. The blog post from MyHub Intranet delves into the art of self-introduction, emphasizing its importance in scenarios like job interviews, networking events, and client meetings. A well-crafted self-introduction serves as a personal elevator pitch, conveying who you are and what you do succinctly.
The article outlines key dos and don’ts to ensure your self-introduction is impactful. It advises keeping the tone conversational and natural, tailoring the message to the audience, being concise, focusing on contributions rather than job titles, and preparing in advance. These guidelines help in making genuine connections and leaving a positive impression.
Additionally, the blog provides insights into crafting effective self-introduction emails. It highlights the importance of a compelling subject line, personalized greeting, clear purpose, and a specific call-to-action. By following these tips, individuals can enhance their communication skills and build stronger professional relationships.
50 Intranet Benefits You Need To Know About
In today’s digital workplace, effective communication and streamlined processes are paramount. The blog post from MyHub Intranet outlines 50 significant benefits of implementing an intranet, emphasizing its role in enhancing internal communication, fostering collaboration, and improving overall productivity.
Key advantages include stronger internal communication through centralized newsfeeds and multimedia capabilities, facilitating two-way communication via blogs and surveys, and personalized content delivery to keep employees engaged. Additionally, intranets serve as a single source of truth, aiding in quick information retrieval and efficient knowledge management.
By breaking down departmental silos and promoting teamwork through dedicated forums and project spaces, intranets not only streamline operations but also cultivate a cohesive organizational culture. Implementing an intranet like MyHub can lead to measurable improvements in employee engagement and operational efficiency.
Intranet Search Engine: How To Find The Right Information Faster
In today’s fast-paced work environment, quick and efficient access to information is crucial. The blog post from MyHub Intranet emphasizes the importance of a powerful intranet search engine in streamlining information retrieval within organizations. Without an effective search function, employees may waste valuable time sifting through irrelevant data, leading to decreased productivity and frustration.
The article delves into understanding employee search intent, highlighting various search behaviors such as specific searches, non-specific searches, author-based searches, and self-generated content searches. Recognizing these patterns allows organizations to tailor their intranet search functionalities to better meet user needs. Additionally, gathering insights through behavior analytics, employee interviews, and surveys can further refine the search experience.
To optimize the intranet search engine, the blog recommends several strategies, including proper content tagging, maintaining consistent naming conventions, and regularly updating metadata. Implementing these best practices ensures that employees can swiftly locate the information they need, thereby enhancing overall organizational efficiency and satisfaction.