Software engineering knowledge at your fingertips

In order to keep up the pace with technology development, knowledge on Software Engineering (SE) methods, techniques, and tools is required. For an effective and efficient knowledge transfer, especially Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) might benefit from Software Engineering Portals (SE-Portals). This paper provides an analysis of SE-Portals by distinguishing two types: 1) the Knowledge Portal and 2) the Knowledge & Community Portal. On behalf of the analysis we conclude that most SE-Portals are developing into the direction of a Knowledge and Community Portal. The paper focuses further on a particular Knowledge & Community Portal, the German ViSEK Portal. First experiences with this portal - based upon a survey amongst its users - are presented. This gives insight in expectations and requirements for Knowledge and community SE-portals.