When comparing organizations’ wikis and Wikipedia, I often say there are two types of wiki communities – the all-virtual vs. the wiki that mirrors a physical community. Wikipedia exemplifies the all-virtual community, where contributors belong to the community only through their participation on the site.

The wiki in your organization is the second kind because people are part of the community for more reasons than just the wiki. They either work or volunteer for the organization, they regularly work with a known group of people and they are often working toward a common goal. They may be in close proximity (even the same office) with at least some of the people they work with, but may be at great distances or even have never met others they work with, but the effects of this are quite different than in an all-virtual group, and the wiki will be used in ways that support the overarching goals of the organization. Wikipatterns, pages 28-29

Like this passage? Pick up your copy of Wikipatterns, online or in your local bookstore. I can help you grow user adoption of your wiki through my workshops and strategy planning.