Wiki

A wiki is a page or collection of Web pages designed to enable anyone who accesses it to contribute or modify content, using a simplified markup language. Wikis are often used to create collaborative websites and to power community websites. The collaborative encyclopedia Wikipedia is one of the best-known wikis. Wikis are used in business to provide intranets and Knowledge Management systems. Ward Cunningham, developer of the first wiki software, WikiWikiWeb, originally described it as “the simplest online database that could possibly work”.

Wikipedia is the most illustrious example of “wiki software” and has gained critical acclaim. This wiki content management system is one example of what’s now become a prominent content management option for businesses around the world.

Here is why wiki software has picked up steam over the years and become a renowned option as an open source solution.

What is Wiki Software?

Wiki software refers to a systematic solution for collaborative purposes. The “wiki” enables users to set up and/or edit entries using a pre-determined platform. The number of users can increase without a page losing its integrity as a legitimate source.

In general, a wiki system is hosted on its own web server for in-depth access. All information on the wiki is editable, secure, and consistent with the general theme. An entire project can be built on the software as multiple parties collaborate and share information in one place. This open script solution can be managed using various programming languages to customize the user experience.

Features include:

* Organizes Editable Information (New and Old)

* Enables Entering of New Information (Directories, Apps, CMS)

* Optimizes Management of Information (Search Options)

* Enables Multi-Level Access (Rights Based on Role in the Project)

* Establishes Consensus (Expression of Views)

* Prevents Excessive Use of E-mails

Wiki website software is present in public and enterprise settings with equal success. These features offer a tailor-made opportunity for larger groups to maximize their resources and collaborate without issues.

What is it Used For?

Wiki software can be customized depending on the user’s requirements.

* Public Facing Wikis

* Private Enterprise Wikis

* Personal Wikis

Public facing wikis are designed to maximize and leverage a larger user base. This user base is comprised of writers/editors, and of course readers. While private enterprise wikis involve the use of data management for organizational needs. Lastly, personal wikis are designed for single person usage and can be run on a private device if necessary. Please note, some software options can be tailored to all three types depending on the wiki scripts.

Each wiki script will vary offering its own list of benefits based on how it’s used. Keep this in mind while setting up a new wiki.

The Benefits of Using Wiki Software

1) Helps Share Information

One of the primary benefits of a wiki website CMS is the ability to share information in a single location. Traditional solutions would often rely on e-mails and those can become tedious, overwhelming, and downright frustrating. Instead, wiki software is able to pass this information on without wasting time. Everything is accessible in one spot and helps keep things streamlined.

This can become important while dealing with larger projects.

A larger enterprise might have a project that involves multiple departments across multiple continents. This is commonplace with some of the largest companies on the planet and this is why wiki software offers value. It provides a one-stop solution for sharing, editing, and delivering information in a seamless manner. Everything is managed with the help of a high-quality wiki website script.

2) Simplifies Collaboration

Sticking the same example of a larger multinational company and its project-based needs, there is nothing more important than efficient collaboration. Such projects will have strict deadlines and several moving parts involving different departments. If each user doesn’t do his/her part, the entire project can come to a screeching halt. With the help of wiki software, it’s easier to collaborate without having to think hard.

The user is able to log-in, take a look at recently edited content, and make amendments (with receipts) based on his/her editing rights. This enables continuous workflow from start to finish regardless of what day it is or what time it is.

3) Adapts to Various Programming Languages

One of the more underrated benefits of using wiki software is its ability to work with different programming languages. This open script solution can be tailor-made to work with various known programming languages without missing a beat. This can help manage tech-based projects that are reliant on specific programming needs.

The user is easily able to manage the nuances of a database knowing the programming language is incorporated into the software itself. This level of control is highly beneficial in the long-term.