Introduction to Wikis
A wiki is a website that allows people to collaboratively write, share and edit information in a central location. This site is an example of a wiki. We have created the "shell" of the site, but any interested reader can add examples, comments, suggestions, etc. This makes it an effective tool for project management and the development of collaborative documents.
Wikis can be public, like this wiki. That means that all content is visible to the public and that the public may make changes.
Protected wikis may be viewed by the public, but only authorized users may make any edits or changes.
Private wikis are hidden from public view and can only be seen and edited by designated users.
Wikis are designed to be easy to use by nontechnical personnel. While there is an initial learning curve to become accustomed to the look and functioning of the wiki, it's similarity to word processing software usually makes it relatively easy to learn.
Probably the most widely known wiki is Wikipedia, an enormous online encyclopedia that is being developed for free by users around the world.
Read more about the basics of wikis here.
Why Would A Nonprofit Want to Use a Wiki?
Wikis are versatile tools that can be used in a variety of ways anytime you have to produce or use a collaborative document. Because they do not require specialized knowledge or expertise to develop and update, you do not have to rely on technical staff to put the information online. Some examples of how a nonprofit can use a wiki include:
- Create in intranet that stores your organization's policy and procedure manual, forms, etc.
- Develop the agenda, conferences notes, etc. for an event. Go here for an example.
- Use a wiki, in combination with social bookmarking, to write a grant proposal. This is particularly useful if you're working with more than one organization to develop the grant.
- Create a website of best practices. Users would be able to add their examples and ideas on their own rather than relying on a central organization and technical staff to update the site. Here's an example.
- Use it to create an online, easily updated resource directory. All organizations can be responsible for editing their own content. Because it doesn't rely on technical staff, it would be easier to keep information up-to-date.
For more information on how to use wikis in nonprofits read this article.
For examples on how nonprofits are using wikis, try these NetSquared Case Studies.
Comments (0)
You don't have permission to comment on this page.