Last month, we discussed what a consumer portal is and the benefits of using one. We also considered how to make the switch to using a consumer portal. First, let’s recap. A consumer portal is a read-only interface, separate from the ECM, that allows content to be accessible to a large audience at low cost. They are ideal for situations where there is a low number of content publishers, but a large number of content consumers.
Here are our top three reasons to publish content out of an ECM and into a consumer portal:
1. Cost Savings
A consumer portal allows content to be published to a separate interface with an unlimited number of users. With most ECMs using a per-user license structure, only content publishers are required to have an account within the ECM. Content consumers (for example, vendors, clients, and other third parties) do not need accounts within the ECM to view the read-only content. The consumer portal helps keep license costs low, while still reaching the maximum audience.
2. Streamlined Interface
Most ECMs ship with an “everything and the kitchen sink” user interface. These interfaces make it difficult to train users and lowers user adoption, especially in scenarios where users are widespread. A consumer portal can provide a simplified, streamlined interface that increases user adoption and allows them to use the portal with minimal training. TSG strongly believes in the philosophy “only show them what they need and nothing more.”
3. High Availability
The separation of the consumer portal and the ECM allows for high availability. The consumer portal will remain accessible, even when the ECM is out of service.
See more of the series here:
3 Questions – What is a Consumer Portal?
Consumer Portals – How Do You Make the Switch from a Traditional ECM?
Learn more about Consumer Portals from our Case Study.
