The Struggle for Notability: Wikipedia's Battle with Creators and the Power of Sticky Products

The Struggle for Notability: Wikipedia's Battle with Creators and the Power of Sticky Products

Introduction:

Wikipedia, the world's largest online encyclopedia, has long grappled with the issue of notability when it comes to creators. With only 20% of biographies featuring women and the subjectivity of determining what qualifies as a "reliable" secondary source, the struggle to define notability is a controversial and complex issue. Additionally, the credibility of publications can vary depending on the country, further complicating the matter. In this article, we will explore the challenges faced by Wikipedia in recognizing creators' contributions and the broader implications for the future of documentation and history. Furthermore, we will delve into the concept of sticky products and how they can create an engaging and immersive user experience.

The Subjectivity of Notability on Wikipedia:

Notability, as a concept, is inherently subjective. Wikipedia attempts to navigate this subjective terrain by establishing detailed guidelines for satisfying notability. One key criterion is the presence of reputable, secondary media coverage for the biographical subject. However, the question remains: What defines a reputable source? The answer may vary depending on the reviewer's subjective decision, making notability a vague and contentious issue. Additionally, the credibility of a citation depends on its source and whether it is considered neutral and notable enough. The reliance on reputable sources becomes problematic when certain creators operate within niche communities or are covered primarily by non-mainstream publications.

The Influence of Secondary Sources:

Wikipedia places great emphasis on the importance of secondary sources. This means that information reported by mainstream publications like The Wall Street Journal holds more weight than coverage from gaming or esports news publications. Consequently, creators who receive extensive coverage in their respective communities may not meet Wikipedia's criteria for notability unless their achievements are acknowledged by widely recognized media outlets. This raises questions about the inclusivity and diversity of perspectives represented on Wikipedia.

The Power of Content Creators:

Content creators, particularly in the age of the Creator Revolution, have the ability to establish their own notability. Through their content, they cultivate a loyal audience and wield significant influence. In fact, studies have shown that 92% of consumers trust an influencer's product recommendation more than a celebrity endorsement. This shift in consumer behavior highlights the impact and reach of content creators. Therefore, it is crucial to consider how creators fit into the future of documentation and history, as they play a pivotal role in shaping narratives and disseminating information.

The Gatekeeping Role of Wikipedia Editors:

At the heart of the struggle for notability on Wikipedia lies the gatekeeping role of its editors. It is worth noting that 90% of the encyclopedia's top editors are male, which raises concerns about bias and the representation of diverse voices. As one editor astutely observed, "We cover what reliable sources cover." This statement underscores the reciprocal relationship between Wikipedia and the media. Wikipedia both influences and is influenced by mainstream publications, further emphasizing the need for a more inclusive and nuanced approach to determining notability.

The Rise of Sticky Products:

In the realm of product development, companies like Facebook and Evernote have successfully created sticky products. These products leverage user-generated data to enhance the user experience and create a sense of dependency. Sticky products offer accruing benefits, meaning that the more a user engages with the product, the better it becomes. By combining explicit and implicit actions, these products create a strong sense of value and attachment. Users become reluctant to leave because they have much to lose, such as their accumulated followers, investments, or personal identity associated with the product.

Actionable Advice:

• 1. Foster a more inclusive and diverse editing community on Wikipedia: Encourage individuals from underrepresented groups to contribute as editors, ensuring a broader range of perspectives and reducing bias in determining notability.

• 2. Rethink the criteria for notability: Develop a more nuanced approach that recognizes the significance of creators within their specific communities and acknowledges the impact they have on shaping narratives and disseminating information.

• 3. Embrace a multi-dimensional approach to credibility: Move beyond the reliance on mainstream publications as the sole measure of credibility. Consider the context and relevance of secondary sources within specific communities, acknowledging the influence and reach of non-mainstream media outlets.

In conclusion, the struggle for notability on Wikipedia highlights the challenges of defining and recognizing the contributions of creators. The subjectivity of notability criteria and the gatekeeping role of Wikipedia editors have led to a lack of representation and diversity on the platform. Simultaneously, the rise of sticky products demonstrates the power of user-generated data in creating engaging and immersive experiences. By reevaluating notability criteria and embracing a more inclusive approach, we can ensure that creators are given the recognition they deserve, and our documentation and history reflect the diverse voices that shape our world.