What is a portal - and why are there so many of them? Once gateways to the Web, they keep expanding
Article Abstract:
Portals, despite some confusion about their precise role, have emerged by holding nine of the top 10 most visited Web sites. The most basic portal function consists of referring online surfers to other Web sites. Offerings have expanded beyond search-engine capabilities to extras such as E-mail and customized news information, as the portals attempt to keep browsers on their page. Longer stays can help the portals raise advertising rates, which generate their income. Many portals offer the same basic services, but some distinguish themselves through attractive features and quality. Personalization is the most recent trend, as portals let users create their own front page of information that they want to read first. Niche portals cover topics ranging from women's issues to the huge ESPN sports network site. More experienced surfers tend to bypass portals and select their favorite Web sites.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1998
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Mail.com makes a mark by staying in the shadows
Article Abstract:
Mail.com offers free e-mail at its own Web site, but 75% of its business comes from large clients that hire it to create e-mail services for them, clients such as CNN Interactive, Rolling Stone and Alta Vista. The other 25% of the New York firm's revenue is from other services offered at its own Web site. Major competitors for corporate clients are Critical Path Inc. and CommTouch Software, both in Northern California.
Comment:
Free e-mail is its core business
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1999
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