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Wikis

Wiki Definition from Tech Terms - A wiki is a Web site that allows users to add and update content on the site using their own Web browser. This is made possible by Wiki software that runs on the Web server. Wikis end up being created mainly by a collaborative effort of the site visitors.

This site is a wiki. We were able to build all of these pages using wiki software that is as easy to edit as a word processing document, but with a lot more functionality, like being able to embed videos and slide presentations.

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. Here is an example of using a wiki to organize a conference.
  • 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 of using a website to organize and share best practices..
  • 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.

Getting Started

1. Explore these links to get the basics on wikis

2. Explore these examples to get an idea of how wikis are being used.

Selecting a Wiki Service

There are many wiki solutions available. The best way to select the wiki that's right for you is to try the Wiki Choice Wizard from WikiMatrix. It walks you through some key questions and then offers wiki software that matches your answers.

Wiki Tools

These three tools are good ones to start with if you want to experiment with wikis. Some organizations find that they want to use more advanced tools, but most organizations end up being very happy with these wiki solutions.

Wikispaces

Wikispaces is free for public spaces, $50/year for private spaces.

Wetpaint

Wetpaint sites are free (except for a few premimum services on Wetpaint you can pay for) and have these Wetpaint features.

You also have the option of "injecting" a wetpaint wiki into your regular site. This basically means that your Wetpaint wiki would be embedded into your regular static website. Wetpaint Injected is free to use for up to 15,000 pageviews per month with limited support. Information on injecting a Wetpaint wiki into your regular site is available here.

MediaWiki

MediaWiki is the free, open-source software that powers Wikipedia. This is a powerful, very accessible platform for hosting your own wikis. This blog is powered by MediaWiki.

PBWorks

PBWorks recently changed their name from PBWiki, so most resources still use the old name. The PBWorks subscription plans are described here The free personal version will work well for most projects and organizations, especially if you're just starting to experiment.

Ideas and Examples

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