Portals are enhancing the ability of end users to discover information simply and effectively compared with previous methods, and a favourite portal on the web is becoming a first port of call for many when searching. Whilst portals are clearly a benefit, the term has also become almost synonymous with any point of access to information on the web. Many different types of service call themselves a portal and it is difficult for end users to differentiate between these and understand what functionality is available. The library world has a particular concern in addressing this problem. For information professionals it is important that good advice is given to end users on which services on the web are of most benefit and what they can offer. Information services can also make use of portals themselves to enhance access to information and resources. Making effective use of them can be difficult. How are such decisions made, and what is needed to take best advantage of portals? This book aims to answer some of these questions and to provide the library and information community with a clear overview of what portals can do, and how they can be and are being used.
It will look at what a portal can offer and stake a claim for what it should be in terms of its functionality. It will seek to assist decision-making when implementing a portal application, and assist with offering clear advice to end users on portal services available on the web. Readers will benefit from this book by learning about portals in a wide context, within and beyond the library and information world. They will increase their knowledge of what portals can offer and be able to make informed decisions when using and/or implementing portals.