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Traditionally, architects are a conservative
bunch who fiercely guards "company secrets." As a result, the idea
of using an extranet to share documents and collaborate with others
has been totally alien.
But tradition is rapidly changing. Increasingly, architectural firms
are using extranets to share documents in a secure environment. Why?
Because projects move faster, clients are happier, and everything –
from schedules and budgets to CAD drawings and renderings -- is more
accessible.
An extranet allows engineers and construction companies to
immediately access all pertinent information about a project. It
eliminates the frustration of waiting until the architect decides to
share his plans.
Client relationships are enhanced through the faster and easier
access to the vast volume of documents. Approvals are made more
quickly, and the client has the comfort of knowing that they can
review anything, at anytime.
What is an Extranet?
An extranet provides a secure workspace for clients, vendors and
business partners. It is an area where all the pertinent information
for a project can be made available to all of the parties involved
in the project.
Studies show that almost 50% of architectural firms have used an
extranet. Some firms have resisted using the tool due to the high
cost of implementation and maintenance. It is true that the cost of
setting up an in-house extranet can be expensive. It requires the
purchase of equipment and software, and hiring or training personnel
to setup and maintain the system.
However, hosted extranets have become a popular alternative to
in-house solutions. They can be purchased for a monthly fee from an
application service provider. This approach eliminates the need for
hardware and software, and requires no internal staff to maintain
the system. In fact, most hosting companies provide training for
your staff.
Today, as people become more accustomed to doing most of their
business over the internet, clients are requiring that architectural
firms use extranet technology. The good news is that extranets have
become affordable. More importantly, they make the complex task of
collaboration more efficient, enhancing the relationships with
clients and partners, and accelerating project completion.
About the Author:
D. Benjamin Castonguay is the owner of iapsales.com
LLC - a family business specializing in
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