Corporate Intranets are now ubiquitous. They can enhance communicating, information sharing and collaborating in firms. But fully tapping the potential power of Intranets probably depends on non-technology factors--involving organizations and people--as much as on technological ones. Moreover, Intranets are evolving to perform more complex tasks, possibly transforming information into "knowledge".

This Round Table dealt with key managerial imperatives associated with effective Intranets and emerging forms of Intranets. In particular, the discussion examined the promises Intranets might hold for increasing the flow of knowledge throughout an organization.

Industry speakers and panelists included:

• Martin J. Hirsch, Director of Systems and Technology, Citicorp Investment Services;
  
  
• Alan Kantrow, Chief Knowledge Officer, The Monitor Company;
  
  
• George Lieberman, First VP and Senior Director of Technology Strategy Planning, Operations, Services and Technology, Merrill Lynch; and
  
  
• J.R. ("Jay") Topper, Jr., Director of Information Technology and Strategy, Production Resource Group L.L.C.
  
  

Institute and industry speakers, panelists and moderators included:

• John Clippinger, Chief Executive Officer, Context Media; and
  
  
• Professor Mel Horwitch, Director, Institute for Technology and Enterprise; Chair, Department of Management, Polytechnic University
  
  

The Institute case study, "Merrill Lynch: The Company, Competitive Objectives and Intranet Initiatives", by J.R. ("Jay") Topper, Jr., was also presented at this Round Table. This case is available here.