Wikis

A wiki is a collaborative content management system located on the Internet.  Wikis allow multiple users to collaborate and edit the content of wiki Web pages using any computer with Internet connectivity.  Wiki pages are often linked with other Web pages through hyperlinks placed within the wiki’s content.  The first wiki Web site was created by Ward Cunningham in 1995.  Since then, an explosion of wiki Web sites have been created on the Internet.  The success of wiki Web sites is attributed to wiki contributors who create, edit, and maintain the sites.  A sense of community is fostered by the collaborative nature of wiki sites.

Features

Users can create and organize content on wikis collaboratively with other users who share the same interests, but may offer different perspectives or area of expertise.  Allowing edits and contributions from various users creates an open and inclusive environment that many people find appealing. Users do not have to be technologically savvy as anyone with a computer and Internet connection can access and edit a wiki.

Groups and organizations use wiki Web sites to develop projects and communicate with group members.  At least one group member must act as the site administrator.  The site administrator assigns user privileges to group members, restricting what they can and cannot access and edit on the site.

Benefits

By creating a wiki Web site, group members can view, edit, and contribute information in a centralized, Web-hosted location.  Being able to access the site through any Internet-connected computer is convenient and efficient for groups and their members.  Someone like Robert Haines who is looking for a central location from which to share and receive information on technical writing can truly benefit from the implementation of a wiki Web site.  Jimmy Chin could also benefit from the use of a wiki Web site as it would afford him an accessible way to interact with an STC mentor.

External Web Sites