Portals what and why? Presentation defines a portal as a main entrance or site serving as a guide to other sites on the web. It discusses business drivers for portals including preventing silos, thinking user-centric, and reusing functionality. Usability drivers include a single screen for all information, single sign-on, and a consistent user experience. Architectural drivers are simplifying architecture and enabling modular and scalable designs. The key driver is reducing time to market. Challenges include requiring user-centric thinking and coordination across teams. Examples of portal products and technologies are provided.