BES-Net is a capacity sharing “network of networks” that promotes dialogue among science, policy and practice for more effective management of biodiversity and ecosystems, contributing to long-term human well-being and sustainable development. The Network is supported by face-to-face capacity building activities (the BES-Net Trialogues), a matchmaking facility, and a cutting-edge web portal – with all components mutually reinforcing.

Development of the BES-Net web portal (Phase 1) (www.besnet.world) was finalized at the end of 2015, followed by an internal soft launch in January 2016. Over the course of six months, the web portal was piloted within UNDP and feedback was collected on user experience. In August 2016, the soft launch of the web portal was extended to all BES-Net partners and experts with the purpose of collecting further user feedback and having a living and breathing website for the official launch in December 2016. All of the user feedback that was collected over 2016 was analyzed and prioritized into two rounds of upgrades to the web portal: one scheduled to be completed before the official launch (Phase 2) and the other for early 2017 (Phase 3). Phase 2 of development was completed in December 2016, previous to the official launch event at CBD COP 13 in Cancun, Mexico.

The purpose of this project is to complete Phase 3 of development, which will enhance the web portal according to user needs and ensure that it is a relevant and useful tool for promoting knowledge sharing and collaboration opportunities among those seeking a more effective management of biodiversity and ecosystem services.

The BES-Net web-portal is developed using the Drupal Content Management System