Aggregated information

The Portal Desktop provides the primary 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 tools 

Users can use the provided set of tools such as web-based email and calendaring software that follows them through their entire time at the company. 

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

Collaboration 

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

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 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. 

Integration with existing email, calendar, legacy, or web applications enables the portal to serve as a unified access point, enabling access to the information quickly and easily.