Abstract: A method and mechanism for portal web site architecture supporting a plurality of portlets, which are configurable content area displayable on a web page that provides content or performs one or more associated functions or both. Web providers provide the functionality and house the content for portlets. In response to receiving a request for a web page with a portlet, an application server contacts a web provider to obtain the content for the portlet, and assembles the web page using the retrieved content from the web provider and information stored in a database about the structure, appearance, and operation of the web page. Discussion forum portlets, notice board portlets, and memo pad portlets may be used to provide discussion forum functionality, notice board functionality, and memo pad functionality respectively.

Abstract: A method and mechanism for servicing a request for a web page from a user over a worldwide computer network using a portal management system. A user transmits a request for a web page with one or more portlets to a portal web server. The portal web server communicates with one or more web providers to obtain content for any portlets on the web page. Each web provider may communicate with one or more content retrievers, or access pre-rendered web pages generated by a performance engine, to retrieve content necessary to render the web page. Each content retriever may communicate with a content provider to obtain content. The portal web server assembles the requested web page using stored information and the appearance and operation of the web page and content supplied by the web provider.