Internet is a global network, connecting thousands of host servers worldwide. It was established in the beginning of the 1960's. Today, what most people refer to as Internet is really a jumble of networks rooted in academic and research institutions. There are now 10 to 20 million people using an Internet comprised of more than 30,000 networks spread out over 78 nations all over the world.



Presently, the Internet provides the closest approximation of the information superhighway. Naturally, one of the options would be not to implement Internet, and thereby not meet organizational needs and requirements, or establishing a comparative advantage over competition. If implemented, three options are available to the organization.

First, an Internet site can be published with a server that the organization serves. Second, complete Internet access can be obtained throughout the use of an access vendor. Finally, the E-mail function only of Internet can be implemented. As the "Information Superhighway" consists of large numbers of inter-connected networks all over the world, there are almost unlimited sources of information available to the Internet user. Statistical yearbooks, data books, customer registers, business trends, weather service and the latest news are only a few examples of the large range of information accessible.

In addition, it is specially designed to make it possible to actively discuss a specific topic with other users on the network. Internet is also known as the library without walls and a highway of ideas, a collective brain for the world's people. All options except from the E-mail only alternative provide wide access to this information. The initial start-up costs associated with the implementation of Internet are relatively low in comparison to the implementation of other network services.

Furthermore, much of the hardware needed is already available in the organization. However, this proposal recommends that Internet should be implemented throughout the use of an access vendor. Naturally, initial cabling, labor and software costs will be high, but when the system is in place, very little maintenance is necessary. The monthly cost of an Internet service provider is very low and communications expenses can be kept low by using a local vendor. If Internet is implemented by publishing a site, initial hardware outlays and initial training would be significantly higher.

The dream of a paperless administrative environment will probably forever be a dream, but innovations such as Electronic Mail (E-mail) may reduce the need for administrative procedures. E-mail has significantly eased communications processes all over the world and has made it possible for organizations to communicate better with their stakeholders. In addition to the flexibility that E-mail offers, it may reduce the time and money spent on telephone communications, urgent mail and messengers. E-mail can also simplify purchasing, banking, and other administrative arrangements that now exclusively require mail, phone or fax. Moreover, E-mail is immediate and easy to use.