What follows are the components commonly found on Intranets (in particular on landing pages, homepages, and frequently used pages of Intranets). In my work I have been lucky enough to have worked with, implemented or been involved in over a hundred Intranets and this is one of the many tools I use to help plan for and tactically implement different pages.

One of the steps I perform with clients when defining their Intranets, Extranets, or even Internet sites is determine what components they want displayed on each page (which helps define additional requirements for the implementation).

Many components can be built OOTB by using very simple lists and data view web parts or content query webparts (in SharePoint). I have several ‘wireframe’ mockups (in Balsamiq) of each of the components found below which I use along with longer descriptions around the purpose and usage of each component (with some screen captures of many in use).

When I indicate the update frequency I tried to avoid mentioning any level of frequency which causes the component’s value to be in question. As an example if the message from the president/owner/founder is not updated on a frequent enough basis (beyond quarterly) then its value diminishes considerably. So in this I have a lower bound and an upper bound for each update frequency value outlined.

Am I missing some common Intranet components you see in your work? Please let me know what they are in the comments below and I will update the list accordingly.

Hope this helps,
Richard Harbridge