Understanding User Behaviors and Patterns

Table 3-5shows the aggregation and integration features and their benefits.

Table 3-5Aggregation Features and Benefits

Feature

Description

Benefit

Aggregated	The Portal Desktop provides the primary
information	end-user interface for Portal Server and a
	mechanism for extensible content
	aggregation through the Provider Application
	Programming Interface (PAPI). The Portal
	Desktop includes a variety of providers that
	enable container hierarchy and the basic
	building blocks for building some types of
	channels.

Users no longer have to search for the information. Instead, the information finds them.

Consistent set of	Users get a set of tools like web-based email
tools	and calendaring software that follows them
	through their entire time at the company.

Collaboration	Portal Server provides control and access to
	data as a company-wide resource.

Users do not have to use one tool for one project, another tool for another location. Also, because these tools all work within the portal framework, the tools have a consistent look and feel and work similarly, reducing training time.

In many companies, data is seen as being owned by individual departments, instead of as a company-wide resource. The portal can act as a catalyst for breaking down these silos and making the data available in a controlled way to the people who need to use it. This broader, more immediate access can improve collaboration.

Integration	Portal Server enables you to use the Portal
	Desktop as the sole place for users to gain
	access to or launch applications and access
	data.

Iintegration with existing email, calendar, legacy, or web applications enables the portal to serve as a unified access point, enabling users— be that employees, partners, or customers— to access the information users need quickly and easily.