The contribution conundrum: Why did Wikipedia succeed while other encyclopedias failed? Smart Things Smart People Said.

The contribution conundrum: Why did Wikipedia succeed while other encyclopedias failed? Smart Things Smart People Said.

When it comes to user contributions, one platform stands out amongst the rest: Wikipedia. The online encyclopedia has managed to succeed where others have failed, and it begs the question of why. What sets Wikipedia apart from its predecessors? In this article, we will explore the factors that have contributed to Wikipedia's success and how it has managed to attract and retain contributors.

One of the key reasons behind Wikipedia's triumph lies in its user-friendly platform. Unlike other encyclopedias that focused on dazzling users with new technology, Wikipedia opted for simplicity. By utilizing the simple technology of the wiki, Wikipedia's founders were able to prioritize the content of the encyclopedia rather than building complex technology. This familiar and easy-to-use platform lowered the barriers to participation, making it more inviting for users to contribute.

Prior to Wikipedia, online encyclopedias attempted to challenge old metaphors and invent entirely new forms. While this approach may seem innovative, it often alienated potential contributors. Wikipedia took a different approach by building its platform around a familiar product – the encyclopedia. This familiarity created a sense of comfort for users, making them more inclined to contribute to the platform.

Furthermore, Wikipedia's emphasis on substantive content development rather than technology played a significant role in attracting contributors. By offering low transaction costs to participation and de-emphasizing social ownership of content, Wikipedia created an environment that encouraged collaboration. The fact that it was difficult to determine who wrote or edited an article actually worked in Wikipedia's favor, as it relieved the pressure some might feel to contribute something exceptional. This authorless structure resulted in increased collaboration and a greater sense of contribution.

Now, let's shift our focus to a different topic: smart things smart people have said. Throughout history, individuals have shared profound insights that can provide us with valuable lessons. Kevin Kelly once said, "A great way to understand yourself is to seriously reflect on everything you find irritating in others." This quote reminds us to look inward and learn from our own reactions to others.

Ernest Dimnet highlighted the importance of small actions in our daily lives, stating, "The happiness of most people is not ruined by great catastrophes or fatal errors, but by the repetition of slowly destructive little things." This quote serves as a reminder to pay attention to the small details and make positive changes in our habits.

Dan Gilbert's quote sheds light on our tendency to believe what we want to believe. He said, "It doesn't take much to convince us that we are smart and healthy, but it takes a lot of facts to convince us of the opposite." This quote reminds us to be open-minded and question our own biases.

Moving on, Will Durant's quote, "Insecurity is the mother of greed," provides insight into the motivations behind our actions. It reminds us that our insecurities can lead to negative behaviors, such as greed, and encourages us to address the root causes of our actions.

William Osler's quote, "The greater the ignorance, the greater the dogmatism," highlights the dangers of ignorance. It reminds us to seek knowledge and be open to different perspectives to avoid falling into the trap of dogmatic thinking.

Nat Friedman's quote offers a unique perspective on seeking validation. He suggests that it is more fulfilling to find satisfaction in improving our ideas rather than seeking external validation for them.

Warren Buffett's quote emphasizes the importance of surrounding ourselves with people who hold us accountable. Having individuals in our lives who we don't want to disappoint can serve as a powerful motivator for personal growth and success.

William Dawson's quote challenges the notion that wealth brings happiness. He suggests that once our basic needs are met, the pleasure in money diminishes, and we must find value beyond material possessions.

Richard Hamming's quote reminds us that success is not a one-size-fits-all concept. What brought us success may not be applicable to future generations. It encourages us to adapt and evolve, always striving for improvement.

Will Smith's quote offers a blunt perspective on human nature. It reminds us that individuals primarily care about their own feelings and experiences, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding in our interactions with others.

Tim Hanson's quote encourages personal growth and development. It suggests that our aim in life and work should be to continuously improve ourselves and make our current selves obsolete.

Mark Brooks highlights the relationship between gratitude and entitlement. He suggests that our capacity for gratitude is inversely proportional to our sense of entitlement. This quote reminds us to cultivate gratitude in our lives and appreciate what we have.

James Clear's quote challenges the conventional measure of success. He suggests that our calendar, which reflects how we spend our time, is a better indicator of success than our bank account. This quote encourages us to prioritize our time and focus on meaningful pursuits.

FedSpeak's quote delves into the purpose of life. It suggests that the purpose of life is to experience things that will later evoke nostalgia. This quote reminds us to cherish the present moment and create memories that we can look back on with fondness.

Ben Franklin's quote offers a different perspective on safety and security. He suggests that true safety lies in never becoming too comfortable or complacent. This quote encourages us to embrace change and take calculated risks.

Lastly, Buffett's quote challenges us to reflect on our legacy. He suggests that we should envision our obituary and work backward to live a life that aligns with our values and aspirations.

In conclusion, Wikipedia's success can be attributed to its familiar and easy-to-use platform, its focus on substantive content development, and its authorless structure that encourages collaboration. These factors have allowed Wikipedia to overcome the contribution conundrum and attract a vast number of contributors. Similarly, the smart insights shared by individuals remind us to reflect on our own actions, seek knowledge, and strive for personal growth. To apply these learnings to our own lives, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

• 1. Lower the barriers to participation: When seeking user contributions, focus on building platforms that are familiar and easy to use. Make it clear what you want from users and provide them with the necessary tools to contribute.

• 2. Emphasize substantive content development: Rather than getting caught up in building complex technology, prioritize the quality of the content. Encourage collaboration and create an environment where users feel comfortable contributing without the pressure to be exceptional.

• 3. Surround yourself with individuals who hold you accountable: Having people in your life who you don't want to disappoint can provide motivation for personal growth and success. Seek out mentors, friends, or colleagues who will challenge and support you.

By implementing these actionable advice, you can enhance your own contributions and create an environment that fosters collaboration and growth.