This is part two of our “Why intranets fail” series. Read part one.
The future of workplace efficiency depends on intranet systems that serve as the central hub for all daily operations. But that’s only possible when an intranet can integrate everything employees need to complete their work efficiently. When they are expected to log into multiple systems or dig through various platforms, productivity plummets, engagement falters, and digital friction sets in.
One of the top reasons why intranets fail is because too many organizations overlook the importance of seamless integration between their intranet and other business apps and collaboration tools.
Without comprehensive intranet integration solutions, companies inadvertently create barriers that hinder productivity instead of enhancing it.
Why does this happen? Many organizations assume their employees will adapt and work around these barriers. But in reality, they’re losing precious time and motivation. Let’s explore how the lack of integration in intranet technology is contributing to the problem and what modern solutions offer to fix it.
Too many systems, not enough integration
For Internal Communication professionals and IT managers, one of the most common frustrations is the number of platforms employees must juggle daily. From CRM systems to project management tools and cloud storage, managing communications and documents can quickly become chaotic when these tools don’t “talk” to each other.
This lack of intranet integration solutions creates silos, resulting in lost time and frustration as employees search for information or switch between applications.
This is especially important in hybrid and remote work settings, where digital collaboration platforms are essential to everyday operations.
According to recent Simpplr research, more than 20% of senior intranet leaders said the lack of integrations between key business systems and their intranet reduced efficiency, created information silos, and led to a disjointed employee technology experience.
The real cost of digital friction
Poor intranet employee experience can lead to lower morale, decreased productivity, and, in some cases, higher employee turnover rates — and, as a result, lost revenue.
McKinsey notes that employees spend 20% of their time simply searching for information and tracking down colleagues. That’s a full day out of every workweek dedicated to tasks that could be eliminated with employee efficiency tools. It’s no surprise that a lack of digital collaboration platforms is among the primary reasons traditional intranets fail to deliver the promised productivity boost.
Employees want to work in environments where they can access everything they need in one place. The success of modern digital collaboration platforms hinges on their ability to break down these barriers.
When an intranet can integrate seamlessly with other systems — such as CRM platforms like Salesforce, document management systems like Google Drive, HR platforms including Workday, and communication tools such as Slack — employees experience a frictionless workflow that allows them to focus on their core responsibilities rather than the tools they use to get there.
Employee efficiency tools for a user-friendly intranet
The key to avoiding a failed intranet program lies in creating a system that brings together the tools employees need in one place. Organizations that invest in integrated intranets — platforms that connect seamlessly with other workplace tools — experience higher levels of employee satisfaction and engagement.
Focus on these intranet integration strategies to create a better employee experience:
1. Document management consolidation
The longer it takes to find a file on email threads, external drives and cloud services, the less time employees spend on meaningful work. Document management consolidation brings all files, documents and resources in one easily accessible location. Simpplr’s intranet platform excels at document management consolidation by integrating with popular tools like Google Drive, Microsoft Office and other cloud storage solutions. This allows employees to access the most up-to-date information within the intranet without needing to open separate apps or programs.
2. AI-powered help desk integration
Another common frustration for employees is the lack of immediate IT support when things go wrong. Technical issues can derail productivity, and employees don’t want to spend hours troubleshooting or waiting for help.
AI-powered help desk integration provides employees with a fast and efficient way to find their own answers to technical issues, which helps reduce downtime and ticket volume. AI chatbots improve the overall employee experience by enabling them to solve problems on their own.
3. Real-time communication tools
Intranet program managers can significantly improve productivity and intranet employee experience by integrating real-time communication tools, which are essential for promoting collaboration. Without easy access to platforms like Slack, Microsoft Teams or Skype, communication can easily become fragmented — leading to confusion, missed messages and project delays.
For example, Simpplr’s intranet platform allows seamless integration with real-time communication tools, making it easy for teams to work together in real-time. This capability not only improves productivity but also fosters a sense of connection among remote and hybrid workers, keeping them engaged and aligned with company goals.
Connectivity fuels innovation and productivity, as well as a sense of community and belonging — especially for remote and frontline employees.
The importance of intranet integration solutions
The intranet’s role has evolved beyond simple information sharing. To truly succeed in today’s workplace, an intranet must provide a seamless, centralized solution that integrates employee efficiency tools for maximum productivity. From real-time communication tools to document management consolidation and AI-powered help desk integration, a well-integrated intranet is the key to unlocking employee efficiency and engagement.
Simpplr’s industry-leading employee experience platform addresses the common challenges of traditional intranets by providing a fully integrated solution that consolidates tools like document management, communication platforms and IT support into one digital work hub.
The comprehensive platform exemplifies the future of intranets, designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s workforce. By focusing on integration, businesses can eliminate the friction caused by siloed systems, reduce operational costs, and foster a more engaged, productive workforce. If you’re interested in seeing how Simpplr can help connect, engage and align your workforce, request a demo or view our on-demand demo.
