Portals [first edition]

Portals are enhancing the ability of end users to discover information simply and effectively compared with previous methods, and a favourite portal on the web is becoming a first port of call for many when searching. Whilst portals are clearly a benefit, the term has also become almost synonymous with any point of access to information on the web. Many different types of service call themselves a portal and it is difficult for end users to differentiate between these and understand what functionality is available. The library world has a particular concern in addressing this problem. For information professionals it is important that good advice is given to end users on which services on the web are of most benefit and what they can offer. Information services can also make use of portals themselves to enhance access to information and resources. Making effective use of them can be difficult.