Difference between revisions of "Timeline of wikis"

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Revision as of 22:35, 16 September 2024

This is a timeline of wikis, a category of websites or online platforms designed for collaborative content creation and management. Wikis allow multiple users to contribute, edit, and organize information collectively. The word "wiki" comes from the Hawaiian word "wiki," which means "quick." The concept was developed by Ward Cunningham in 1995 to facilitate rapid and collaborative creation of content.

Sample questions

The following are some interesting questions that can be answered by reading this timeline:

  • What are some foundational ideas and early systems that influenced the development of wiki technology?
    • Sort the full timeline by "Event type" and look for the group of rows with value "Prelude".
    • You’ll see a summary of key historical milestones and innovations that influenced wiki technology, including early concepts like Bush's "memex," pioneering hypertext systems, the development of the World Wide Web, and early web browsers. These elements collectively contributed to the evolution of collaborative and web-based platforms.
  • How did WikiWikiWeb's early innovations set the stage for advanced collaborative tools in later wikis?
    • Sort the full timeline by "Event type" and look for the group of rows with value "Feature introduction".
    • You will see a number of early features introduced by WikiWikiWeb (the first wiki) to improve user interaction and content management. Innovations include tracking user activity, managing updates, facilitating discussions, and organizing content. Enhancements like edit summaries, personalized usernames, notifications, and linking between wikis improved navigation and community engagement.
  • What are some notable wiki-based initiatives focused on community-driven content and collaboration?
    • Sort the full timeline by "Event type" and look for the group of rows with value "Wiki launch".
    • You'll receive a list of innovative wiki projects that were launched to enhance online collaboration and address various needs. This includes platforms designed for secure information sharing, transparency, community-driven content, specialized knowledge, educational resources, credibility, and user engagement. Each entry highlights the unique goals and features of these early wiki systems.
  • What are some significant wiki software introductions and their main attributes?
    • Sort the full timeline by "Event type" and look for the group of rows with value "Wiki software launch".
    • You’ll receive a list of wiki software launches along with a brief description of their primary features and functions. Each entry provides insights into the purpose and key attributes of different wiki platforms introduced over time.
  • What are some influential books published about wiki technology and its applications?
    • Sort the full timeline by "Event type" and look for the group of rows with value "Literature".
    • You will see publications on wikis, detailing their contributions to understanding wiki technology, its applications, and impact on collaboration and knowledge management.
  • Other events are described under the following types: "Concept development", "Conference", "Organization", "Search engine release", and "Symposium".

Big picture

Time period Development summary More details
1994-1999 Early Years The concept of wikis emerge with Ward Cunningham's creation of WikiWikiWeb. Initially designed as a collaborative tool for software developers, WikiWikiWeb provides a simple yet effective system for sharing and editing information. Its success quickly leads to the development of other wiki applications and websites, demonstrating the potential of this new technology.[1]
1999–2001 Growth and Tensions WikiWikiWeb experiences significant growth during this period, attracting a larger user base. However, this growth also brings challenges. Disagreements arise among contributors regarding the focus of the wiki, leading to tensions and the creation of sister sites. These sister sites, such as MeatballWiki, allow for more specialized discussions and help alleviate some of the strain on the main wiki.
2001 Rise of Wikipedia Wikipedia launches as a free encyclopedia, marking a turning point in the history of wikis. Its success introduces the concept of wikis to a wider audience, demonstrating their potential for collaborative knowledge creation. Wikipedia quickly gains popularity and becomes the most prominent wiki of its time.
2002 – 2006 Democratization Wikis become accessible for the general population. Many different groups of people with various motivations get together to create hosted wikis, which are wiki engines that are installed and hosted on public servers, removing the administration burden associated with running one's own. However, the growth of wikis is severely limited during this period, as the only way one could use a wiki is to first set up a wiki engine on a server. This means that to use a wiki, one has to have access to a server that is available through the Internet as well as the skills to set up and run a wiki engine.[1] Between 2004 and 2006, a significant shift occurs. Entrepreneurs recognize the potential in offering hosted wikis, also called wiki farms, which enable users to create wikis without requiring their own servers or technical expertise. With a hosted wiki, anyone can begin immediately. The only necessary skill is knowing how to create and edit wiki pages, a far simpler task than setting up a wiki engine.[1]
2006 Maturation of Wikis The period from 2006 onwards marks a significant maturation of wikis. Wiki hosting services become increasingly popular, making it easier for individuals and organizations to create their own wikis. Specialized wikis emerge for various topics, catering to niche communities and interests. Additionally, wikis integrate with social media and other platforms, enhancing their accessibility and collaboration capabilities. However, challenges such as quality control, copyright issues, and commercialization arise. Despite these hurdles, wikis would continue to play a vital role in knowledge sharing, community building, and collaboration.

Full timeline

Inclusion criteria

We include:

  • Early wikis and early feaures shaping wikis as tools for collaborative knowledge sharing and online community building.

We do not include:


Timeline

Year Month and date Event type Details
1945 Prelude (conceptual origin) American engineer Vannevar Bush publishes an influential essay titled As We May Think in Atlantic Monthly, introducing the concept of the "memex". This hypothetical machine is envisioned to create automated links between documents, allowing users to instantly access related information. While Bush's vision is more aligned with the idea of a self-contained system rather than a networked one, it lays foundational ideas for hypertext systems, which are key elements in wiki technology.[2][3]
1972 Prelude (conceptual origin) Swedish-Brazilian information scientist Kristo Ivanov publishes his PhD dissertation, Quality-control of information, which explores concepts aligned with the wiki idea. Ivanov emphasizes collaborative knowledge creation, where collective input and ongoing revision can enhance information accuracy. He highlights the importance of decentralized control and active user participation in information management. While his work predates wikis, Ivanov's theories on social interaction, dynamic information, and quality control lays important theoretical foundations that would later influence the development of wiki technology and other collaborative platforms.[4]
1972 Prelude (pre-web hypertext) Researchers at Carnegie-Mellon University develop the ZOG system, a pioneering multi-user database that facilitates collaborative content creation and hypertext navigation. ZOG organizes information into a network of interconnected nodes, allowing users to edit and link content dynamically. While not a direct ancestor of wikis, ZOG introduces key principles such as user collaboration, hierarchical structure, and rapid navigation between information nodes. These concepts would later influence the development of wikis and other collaborative online platforms, marking a significant step in the evolution of knowledge-sharing technologies.[5]
1981 Prelude (pre-web hypertext) Two members of the ZOG team, Donald McCracken and Robert Akscyn, spin off a company from CMU and develop an improved version of ZOG called Knowledge Management System (KMS). KMS is a collaborative tool based on direct manipulation, permitting users to modify the contents of frames, freely intermixing text, graphics and images, any of which could be linked to other frames.[6]
1985 Prelude (pre-web hypertext) Xerox releases the NoteCards, an early hypertext system developed by Frank Halasz at Xerox PARC. NoteCards allow users to create and link pieces of information, called "cards," each displayed in its own window. This system introduces a flexible way to organize complex information through interconnected ideas, influencing the development of later hypertext and collaborative knowledge systems, including wikis. NoteCards' innovative use of typed objects and links laid the groundwork for more advanced digital information tools, making it a significant precursor to modern collaborative platforms.[7][8]
1985 Prelude (pre-web hypertext) Janet Walker develops the Symbolics Document Examiner, an innovative hypertext system designed to electronically access all documentation for Symbolics computers. This system allows users to navigate technical documentation through interconnected hypertext links, making information retrieval more interactive and efficient. As one of the earliest practical applications of hypertext, the Document Examiner showcases the potential of linked documents for managing complex information. Walker's work would significantly influence the evolution of digital documentation and contribute to the development of later hypertext-based systems, including wikis and online encyclopedias.[8]
1987 Prelude (pre-web hypertext) Bill Atkinson releases HyperCard, a pioneering software for Macintosh that allows users to organize information through interconnected "cards" linked by hyperlinks. HyperCard's user-friendly interface enable the creation of interactive documents with text, images, and media, making it accessible even to non-programmers. Bundled with every Macintosh, it becomes widely popular and would be often regarded as a precursor to wikis. Its emphasis on linking and organizing information collaboratively would significantly influence the development of wiki technology and other hypertext systems, showcasing the potential of user-driven, interconnected information management.[1][9][10]
1990 Prelude (World Wide Web) British scientist Tim Berners-Lee invents the World Wide Web while working at CERN. Designed to facilitate global information-sharing among scientists, the Web introduces HTML, HTTP, and URLs, enabling the linking of hypertext documents across different computers. This innovation transforms information access and sharing, providing the foundation for the modern internet and collaborative platforms, including wikis. The Web's open standards and hyperlinking capabilities would become instrumental in the development of wikis and other web-based collaborative tools, marking a significant milestone in information technology.[11]
1991 August 6 Prelude (World Wide Web) Tim Berners-Lee's public announcement of the World Wide Web on the alt.hypertext newsgroup makes the Web accessible to the general public. The emergence of the Web provides a platform for wikis to grow and thrive by offering a global, interconnected medium for collaboration.[12]
1992 March Prelude (World Wide Web) ViolaWWW is released as an early graphical web browser developed by Pei-Yuan Wei. It is notable for its advanced features, including embedded graphics, scripting, and animation, which enhance the multimedia capabilities of the World Wide Web. ViolaWWW provides a more interactive and visually rich browsing experience compared to its text-based predecessors. Its innovations would contribute to the evolution of web browsers and web-based applications, influencing the development of modern browsers and collaborative tools like wikis.[13]
1993 April 30 Prelude CERN makes a landmark decision to release the source code of the WorldWideWeb browser (later renamed Nexus) as free software. This move, led by Tim Berners-Lee and his team, allows the software to be used, modified, and distributed without royalties, fostering the global expansion of the World Wide Web. By making the web an open and accessible platform, CERN accelerates its adoption and innovation. This pivotal step lays the foundation for the collaborative nature of the internet, influencing the development of wikis and other open-source projects that emphasize sharing and community-driven contributions.[14]
1993 Prelude (World Wide Web) The Mosaic graphical browser, developed by Marc Andreessen and Eric Bina at NCSA, becomes a pivotal innovation in internet history. Mosaic's user-friendly interface and strong support for multimedia, including images, audio, and video, set it apart from earlier browsers. Its cross-platform availability and ease of use leads to widespread adoption, significantly contributing to the rapid expansion of the World Wide Web. Mosaic's success not only popularizes the web among the general public but also lays the foundation for future browsers and influences the development of web-based applications, including wiki platforms.[15]
1994 Early development Ward Cunningham starts developing the WikiWikiWeb, the first-ever wiki, as a supplement to the Portland Pattern Repository, a site focused on software design patterns in object-oriented programming. WikiWikiWeb introduces a platform for collaborative editing and knowledge sharing, allowing users to easily create, edit, and expand content directly on the website. The term "wiki" comes from the Hawaiian word for "quick," reflecting the system's speed and simplicity. Cunningham's innovation lays the groundwork for future wiki platforms, including Wikipedia, and revolutionizes how information is collaboratively created and maintained on the internet.[16]
1995 March 25 Wiki launch Cunningham's WikiWikiWeb officially launches. Cunningham installs a prototype on his company’s website, c2.com, and invites colleagues to participate. WikiWikiWeb would also be known as WardsWiki.[16][17]
1995 May 1 Early development Ward Cunningham sends an email about WikiWikiWeb to a number of programmers, which cause an increase in participation.[16] Cunningham writes: “I've always been interested in the way programming ideas are carried by people as they move between projects … I've put together a new database to give the project [of documenting ideas about making programs work] another try. You can help.”[17]
1995 Feature introduction WikiWikiWeb introduces the RecentVisitors and PeopleIndex features. These pages are designed to help users identify and track who was contributing to the site. RecentVisitors provides a list of users who have recently accessed the wiki, while PeopleIndex serves as a directory of contributors, offering insights into the community's active participants. These features enhance the collaborative nature of the wiki by fostering a sense of community and accountability among users, making it easier to connect with and recognize the contributions of others.[18]
1995 Feature introduction WikiWikiWeb introduces the NotSoRecentChanges feature to manage the increasing volume of updates on the site. This feature involves transferring excess lines from the RecentChanges page to a separate file called ChangesIn. This allowes users to access a more manageable record of recent modifications without overwhelming the primary changes page. By creating this archival system, WikiWikiWeb helps users efficiently track and review changes over time, enhancing the usability and organization of the wiki as it continues to grow and accumulate contributions.[18]
1996 Feature introduction WikiWikiWeb introduces the EditCopy feature, enabling users to edit a backup copy of a page rather than the live version. This feature helps prevent accidental overwrites and provides a basic form of version control, enhancing editing safety and workflow. EditCopy allows users to experiment with changes without affecting the main page, laying the groundwork for more advanced version management. In 2002, it would be replaced by the "Page History" feature, which offers comprehensive tracking and comparison of page revisions. The introduction of EditCopy marks an important step in the evolution of wiki functionality and collaborative editing tools.[18]
1996 Feature introduction WikiWikiWeb introduces ThreadMode, a feature that transforms wiki pages into discussion forums. In ThreadMode, users can engage in threaded discussions by adding comments directly to the page and signing their contributions for clear authorship. This format encourages collaborative dialogue, making it easier to follow conversations and fostering community interaction. ThreadMode distinguishes discussion from collaborative document creation, supporting dynamic content creation and enhancing user engagement. This innovation lays the groundwork for discussion pages in later wiki systems and contributes to the evolution of wikis as platforms for both content creation and community interaction.[18]
1996 August 27 Feature introduction Stan Silver proposes the addition of categories and topics to pages on WikiWikiWeb, which becomes a significant feature in organizing content. This feature allows users to create and assign categories to pages, automatically grouping related content into indexes. By enhancing the structure and discoverability of information, WikiCategories make it easier for users to find and explore topics of interest as the wiki expands. This innovation reflects the collaborative nature of wikis and becomes a fundamental feature in future wiki platforms, including Wikipedia, marking a major advancement in the evolution of wiki technology.[19][20]
1997 Feature introduction WikiWikiWeb introduces the RoadMaps feature, which curates lists of pages on specific topics to guide users through related content. Examples like the Algorithms RoadMap or Leadership RoadMap offer structured paths for exploring complex subjects, making it easier for users to navigate and deepen their understanding. RoadMaps add an additional layer of organization beyond categories, helping newcomers and experienced users alike to find relevant information more effectively. This feature enhances the educational value of the wiki and lays the groundwork for similar content portals and guided tours in later wiki systems.[18]
1998 Early development Computer scientist Marius Amado Alves develops CasBah (Collective Authoring System Based on Hypertext), an early collaborative content creation tool. Created independently of WikiWikiWeb, CasBah is implemented as a CGI program in the Ada programming language, allowing multiple users to collaboratively edit hypertext documents. Although CasBah features minimal wiki-like behavior and is not as advanced as other wikis, it represents an early exploration into collective authoring systems. This independent invention highlights the growing interest in collaborative online tools during the early development of the World Wide Web, contributing to the evolution of more sophisticated wiki platforms.[5][21]
1998 Wiki launch Peter Thoeny creates TWiki, a wiki platform written in Perl and inspired by JosWiki. Designed for large corporate intranets, TWiki focuses on providing a collaborative environment for managing and sharing information within organizations. Unlike many wikis that use database storage, TWiki employs plain text file storage, which simplifies deployment and maintenance.[22]
1999 Feature introduction WikiWikiWeb introduces the ChangeSummary feature, which allows users to add brief summaries of their edits. This innovation helps others quickly understand the nature and significance of changes, distinguishing between major updates and minor corrections. By providing transparency into the editing process and enhancing usability, ChangeSummary improves content review and collaboration. This feature makes it easier for users to stay informed about updates and contributes to more effective and thoughtful editing practices. ChangeSummary represents a key advancement in managing wiki content and fostering clearer communication among contributors.[18]
1999 Wiki launch Steve Wainstead develops PhpWiki, the first wiki software written in PHP. PhpWiki is created to offer a more accessible and flexible alternative to existing wiki software, leveraging PHP's server-side scripting capabilities. Its development enables easier integration with web servers and databases. This makes PhpWiki a popular choice for users and organizations seeking a PHP-based solution for collaborative content creation and management, contributing to the broader adoption of wikis on the web.[23]
1999 Wiki launch Zwiki, a Python-based wiki platform, was introduced by Simon Michael and Joyful Systems. Zwiki is designed to offer a flexible and easy-to-use framework for collaborative writing and documentation, allowing users to create and edit web pages collectively. As one of the early wiki engines, Zwiki plays a role in the development of open-source wiki software, offering features like page versioning, user access controls, and customization options. Its implementation in Python makes it particularly appealing to developers in the Python community, contributing to the growth of wikis as tools for knowledge sharing and collaboration in both personal and professional contexts.[24]
1999 Wiki launch WikiAnswers (later rebranded as Answers.com) is launched as an Internet-based knowledge exchange platform. It utilizes wiki technology to enable users to collaboratively create and edit answers to questions. This approach allows for a dynamic, evolving repository of information, distinguishing it from traditional encyclopedic sources. WikiAnswers facilitates a community-driven exchange of knowledge, reflecting the wiki model of collaborative content creation. It marks an early application of wiki principles to a question-and-answer format and lays the groundwork for future community-driven Q&A sites. The platform would since evolve through various changes and ownership transfers.[25] It is an Internet-based knowledge exchange.[26]
1999 December Wiki software launch Traction TeamPage is released as the first proprietary wiki software designed specifically for enterprise customers. Developed by Traction Software, it aims to provide businesses with a collaborative platform that combined the flexibility of wikis with robust security and project management features suited for organizational use. TeamPage allows teams to create, share, and manage documents and projects efficiently within a secure, customizable environment. [27]
2000 Feature introduction WikiWikiWeb introduces the UserName feature, which allows users to replace their IP addresses or host names with personalized usernames in the RecentChanges log. By using cookies to store and recognize these usernames, the feature improves user identification and accountability. It facilitates better interaction and recognition within the wiki community, as contributions were linked to consistent, recognizable names rather than anonymous IP addresses. This enhancement fosters a sense of identity and increased visibility of individual contributors, making it easier to track and acknowledge edits and interactions.[18]
2000 Wiki launch Sunir Shah launches the MeatballProject to explore "collaborative hypermedia" and facilitate collaboration among wiki developers. MeatballWiki, a key component of the project and hosted by Clifford Adams on UseModWiki software, would significantly influence wiki technology and development. It would serve as a central hub for discussions on functional improvements and impacted other major wiki projects and script developers, helping advance the evolution of wiki platforms.[28]
2000 Feature introduction WikiWikiWeb introduces NewNotification to the RecentChanges page. This feature highlights new updates or changes since a user's last visit, using visual or textual indicators to make recent modifications more noticeable. By improving the visibility of new content, NewNotification streamlines the process of tracking changes and enhances user engagement with the wiki's evolving content. This addition makes it easier for users to stay informed about the latest developments and efficiently review updates.[16]
2000 Feature introduction WikiWikiWeb introduces two key features: LikePages and VisualTour. LikePages enables users to view pages related to or similar to the one they are currently viewing, enhancing navigation by suggesting relevant content and improving the interconnectedness of the wiki. This feature helps users discover more about related topics and organize the content more effectively. VisualTour provides a graphical interface that visually represents the wiki’s structure and navigation, aiding users in understanding the layout and relationships between pages. By offering a guided tour and highlighting key features, VisualTour makes it easier for users to explore the content, familiarize themselves with the platform, and navigate more intuitively. Together, these features significantly improve the user experience by facilitating content discovery and enhancing overall site navigation.[16]
2000 Feature introduction WikiWikiWeb introduces PageDeletion, a feature that allows users to delete pages from the wiki. This functionality provides the ability to remove outdated, irrelevant, or incorrect content, ensuring that the wiki remains current and accurate. The introduction of PageDeletion adds a layer of content management, enabling better organization and maintenance of the wiki by allowing users to manage and curate the information more effectively. This feature helps in maintaining the quality and relevance of the content on the platform.[16]
2000 Feature introduction WikiWikiWeb introduces SisterSites, a feature designed to link and manage relationships between different wikis or related websites. This feature enables users to connect to and navigate between associated wikis, enhancing cross-referencing and collaboration across various platforms. By linking to sister sites, users can access a broader range of information and engage with a larger community of contributors. SisterSites foster greater integration and coherence within the wiki ecosystem, expanding the interconnected network of knowledge bases and improving the overall user experience.[16]
2000 Feature introduction WikiWikiWeb introduces QuickChanges, a feature designed to streamline the editing process by allowing users to make and view changes to pages more efficiently. This feature simplifies the interface for minor edits, enabling quicker updates and corrections. By reducing the time and effort required for small modifications, QuickChanges enhances the user experience and promotes active participation in content management. It contributes to a more dynamic and responsive editing environment, improving overall efficiency in collaborative content creation.[16]
2000 Wiki software launch MoinMoin is created by Jürgen Hermann and Thomas Waldmann. It is based on PikiPiki and features a flat-file structure with a modular approach to parsing and formatting.[29]
2000 September Wiki launch Sensei's Library, a wiki dedicated to the game of Go, is created by Morten G. Pahle and Arno Hollosi. It would become one of the largest and most active wikis outside Wikipedia in its early years.[30]
2001 January 15 Wiki launch Wikipedia is launched by Jimmy Wales and Larry Sanger. It initially uses UseModWiki software and quickly becomes a major platform for collaborative knowledge. This free, web-based encyclopedia enables users to collaboratively create and edit articles. Wikipedia's open editing system and extensive volunteer contributions quickly establishes it as one of the largest and most popular reference websites globally. Its launch marks a significant milestone in online knowledge sharing, leveraging the collective efforts of a global community to build and maintain an extensive repository of information. Wikipedia's success demonstrates the power of collaborative knowledge creation and would have a profound impact on education, research, and communication.[31]
2001 April 3 Literature Ward Cunningham and user Bo Leuf publish a book, The Wiki Way, which distills insights from the development of WikiWikiWeb, exploring wiki principles and practices. It focuses on enhancing group communication and collective knowledge creation through collaborative tools. Serving as both a practical guide and theoretical exploration, The Wiki Way provides lessons for leveraging wiki technology and fosters understanding of its potential for efficient web-based teamwork. This work would significantly contribute to the awareness and adoption of wiki technology.[32]
2001 Wiki software launch Janne Jalkanen creates JSPWiki, a wiki software clone of WikiWikiWeb. Written in Java and JSP (JavaServer Pages), JSPWiki provides a flexible, Java-based platform for creating and managing wikis. It aims to offer similar collaborative features as the original WikiWikiWeb while leveraging Java’s platform independence and JSP capabilities. JSPWiki expands the diversity of wiki software options, enhancing the accessibility and flexibility of collaborative technology and contributing to the evolution of wiki tools for knowledge management.[33][34]
2002 January Wiki software launch Patrick Michaud launches PmWiki, a wiki-based content management system (CMS) written in PHP. Designed for collaborative website creation and maintenance, PmWiki offers a user-friendly interface and supports extensive customization and extension options. Its flexible structure makes it suitable for developing various types of websites, contributing to its popularity among organizations and individuals. PmWiki's introduction enhances the range of wiki software options and reinforces the wiki model as a versatile and effective tool for community-driven content management and collaborative web development. [35][36]
2002 February 26 Wiki launch Enciclopedia Libre Universal en Español is launched as a Spanish-language wiki-based online encyclopedia.[37]
2002 December 12 Wiki launch Wiktionary is launched as a multilingual, web-based dictionary project. Designed to create a comprehensive, freely accessible dictionary in over 150 languages, Wiktionary operates under a collaborative model similar to Wikipedia. It allows users to contribute and edit entries, including definitions, etymologies, pronunciations, and translations. Volunteers, known as "Wiktionarians," drive the project, making Wiktionary a vital global resource for linguistic information and language research.[38] [39]
2002 Wiki software launch TikiWiki is created by Luis Argerich using PHP. Initially developed as a wiki-based content management system, TikiWiki would evolve into a comprehensive platform for collaborative work, incorporating a wide range of features including forums, blogs, file and image galleries, and more. Over time, it would be renamed Tiki Wiki CMS Groupware, or simply Tiki, reflecting its expanded functionality as both a content management system (CMS) and groupware tool. Tiki is known for its flexibility and extensive feature set, making it a versatile solution for building and managing complex web applications.[40]
2002 December Organization Socialtext is founded as a company offering professional, web-based wiki services designed to facilitate collaboration among users on various projects. Socialtext provided businesses and organizations with tools to create and manage collaborative workspaces, enabling teams to share knowledge, documents, and ideas efficiently.[41][42] In 2012, Socialtext would be acquired by Bedford Funding, becoming a subsidiary and further expanding its reach in the enterprise collaboration market. The platform would play a significant role in popularizing the use of wikis within corporate environments, making it easier for teams to work together in a dynamic and integrated manner.[43]
2003 June 20 Organization The Wikimedia Foundation is founded by Jimmy Wales in St. Petersburg, Florida, as a non-profit organization. The Wikimedia Foundation manages and supports various free knowledge projects, including Wikipedia, Wikimedia Commons, and Wiktionary. Its mission is to provide freely accessible knowledge to people worldwide and foster a global community of contributors. The Foundation would play a crucial role in the development and maintenance of these collaborative platforms, promoting the dissemination and growth of open content.[44]
2003 July 10 Wiki launch Wikibooks is launched as a response to a request from Karl Wick, a Wikipedia contributor who seeks a platform for creating and sharing free textbooks on subjects like organic chemistry and physics. Wikibooks is a project of the Wikimedia Foundation dedicated to collaboratively writing and maintaining open-content textbooks and educational materials. It allows users to contribute and edit content on a wide range of subjects, aiming to provide high-quality, freely accessible educational resources for learners around the world.[45][46]
2003 July Wiki launch Wikiquote is launched as a free compendium of sourced quotations from notable people and creative works across various languages. The platform provides a curated collection of quotes, along with translations of non-English quotes, and links to Wikipedia for additional context and information. Wikiquote serves as a valuable resource for finding and sharing impactful statements and insights, making it easier for users to access and cite memorable quotes from a diverse range of sources.[1][47]
2003 July Wiki launch The Wikimedia Foundation launches Wikibooks, a new project aimed at creating and distributing free, collaboratively written textbooks and educational materials. This initiative extends the Wikimedia model of open, community-driven content creation beyond Wikipedia, allowing users to collaboratively develop and edit instructional books on various subjects. Wikibooks supports a wide range of educational topics and provides a platform for users to contribute and refine resources, promoting accessible education globally.[48]
2003 July Wiki launch Wikitravel is launched with the goal of creating a comprehensive, free, and up-to-date travel guide for destinations around the world. The project leverages the collaborative nature of wikis to provide detailed travel information, including recommendations on accommodations, attractions, and local customs. In 2007, Wikitravel would be recognized with a Webby Award for Best Travel Website, highlighting its impact and success in providing valuable travel resources and advice to a global audience.[49][50] [51]
2003 November 24 Wiki launch Wikisource is launched as a free, human-curated online digital library. Originally named "Project Sourceberg," it hosts texts that are out of copyright, in the public domain, or available under Creative Commons licenses such as CC-Zero, CC-BY, and CC-BY-SA. Wikisource aims to provide access to a diverse range of literary, historical, and scholarly texts, making them freely available to the public for reading, research, and educational purposes.[52][53]
2004 February Feature introduction WikiWikiWeb introduces RecentPosts, a feature designed to display recent changes made to a page. This temporary script shows IP addresses, UserNames (if set), and timestamps of edits, extracted from four days' worth of server logs. The feature aims to enhance transparency and tracking of contributions, allowing users to monitor recent activity and identify contributors to the wiki pages.[16][54]
2004 February Wiki software launch Trac is launched by Edgewall Software. It is an open-source application designed for bug tracking and project management, incorporating wiki functionality to facilitate collaborative development and documentation. Trac provides a unified platform for managing project tasks, tracking issues, and maintaining a project wiki, making it a valuable tool for software development teams and other project-based work.[55]
2004 March Wiki software launch Confluence is launched by Atlassian as a web-based corporate wiki and collaboration software. Designed to facilitate teamwork and knowledge sharing within organizations, Confluence offers features such as document creation, content organization, collaborative editing, and integration with other tools. It aims to improve internal communication and streamline project management by providing a centralized platform for teams to work together on documentation and project-related tasks.[55]
2004 April Wiki launch TV Tropes is launched.[56] It is a wiki website that collects and documents descriptions and examples of plot conventions and devices, more commonly known as tropes, within many creative works.[57]
2004 July Wiki software launch DokuWiki is launched. It is an open-source application intended for small companies' documentation needs.[55] Over the years, DokuWiki would become one of the most popular wiki engines available, achieving significant usage with stable interest over time.[58][59][60]
2004 July Wiki launch OpenStreetMap is launched as an ambitious project to create an open-source street map of the world using wiki functionality. The platform allows users to contribute and edit geographic data collaboratively, building a comprehensive and freely accessible map that would since become a vital resource for various applications, including navigation and humanitarian aid.[61]
2004 September 7 Wiki launch Media file repository Wikimedia Commons is launched.[62] It offers public domain and freely licensed educational media content, including images, sound and video clips to everyone, in their own language.[63]
2004 September Wiki launch Wikispecies is started, with biologists around the world invited to contribute,[64] Supported by the Wikimedia Foundation, it is a wiki-based online project aimed to create a comprehensive free content catalogue of all species. It is directed at scientists, rather than at the general public.[65]
2004 September Wiki software launch FlexWiki is launched by Microsoft as an open source application.[66] Written primarily by David Ornstein, FlexWiki uses .NET technology and has an integrated scripting language called WikiTalk (based on Smalltalk). It stores content in either text files or a SQL Server database.[67] Though generally well-received, FlexWiki would fail to become popular and would be discontinued in December 2008.[55]
2004 October Wiki software launch JotSpot is launched by JotSpot, Inc., offering a user-friendly, wiki-based platform for collaborative content creation and management. In 2006, JotSpot would be acquired by Google for an undisclosed amount. Google would repurpose JotSpot's technology, releasing it in 2008 as Google Sites, a tool designed for creating and managing websites and collaborative workspaces. This transition allows Google Sites to expand the reach of wiki-based collaboration tools, integrating the features of JotSpot into a broader platform for users to create and manage collaborative projects.[55]
2004 October Wiki launch Wikicities is launched by Jimmy Wales and Angela Beesley as a platform for creating community-driven wikis on various topics. The goal is to enable communities to build their own wikis using the collaborative model of Wikipedia.[68] In 2006, Wikicities would be rebranded as Wikia, reflecting its expanded vision to support a wide range of community-driven wikis and knowledge-sharing projects across diverse subjects.[69] By September 2006, Wikia would reach approximately 1,500 wikis in 48 languages.[70] In October 2016, Wikia.com would be rebranded as Fandom.[71][72]
2004 November 8 Wiki launch Wikinews is launched by the Wikimedia Foundation as a free-content news wiki. The project aims to offer unbiased, citizen-driven news coverage, allowing volunteers to contribute articles and updates on various topics. Following the collaborative model of other Wikimedia projects, Wikinews would operate in 29 languages as of September 2022, with 1,736,700 articles and 556 active editors, reflecting its ongoing role in global news reporting.[73] A project of the Wikimedia Foundation, it is a free-content news wiki.[74][75][76]
2004 November 23 Wiki launch Memory Alpha is officially launched as a wiki dedicated to the Star Trek franchise. This collaborative project aims to create the most comprehensive and accurate encyclopedia and reference for all things related to Star Trek. Memory Alpha allows fans and contributors to compile and share detailed information on characters, episodes, technology, and lore, making it a central hub for both casual viewers and dedicated fans seeking in-depth knowledge of the series.[77][78]
2004 November 24 Wiki launch WoWWiki (also World of Warcraft Wiki) is launched. This wiki serves as a comprehensive resource for players and fans of the popular MMORPG World of Warcraft. WoWWiki provides detailed information on various aspects of the game, including characters, quests, lore, gameplay mechanics, and community activities. It would quickly become one of the largest and most popular wikis dedicated to a single video game, offering an extensive database for both new and veteran players to explore the vast World of Warcraft universe.[79]
2004 December Wiki launch Stupidedia, a German-language parody of Wikipedia, is founded just a week after Encyclopedia Dramatica. The site aims to spoof the serious tone and style of Wikipedia, offering humorous and exaggerated content.[80] Over time, Stupidedia would become one of the most well-known parody wikis in the German-speaking world, eventually merging with Uncyclopedia.
2005 January 5 Wiki launch Uncyclopedia is launched as a satirical and humorous parody of Wikipedia. The wiki is dedicated to creating comedic, fictional, and absurd articles, mimicking the style and format of Wikipedia while intentionally providing inaccurate or exaggerated content for entertainment purposes. In July 2006, Uncyclopedia would be acquired by Fandom, which is then known as Wikia. Despite its humorous nature, Uncyclopedia would develop a dedicated following, becoming a popular platform for creative and comedic writing within the wiki community.[81][72]
2005 January 15 Wiki launch wikiHow is launched with the goal of creating "the how-to guide for everything."[82][83] It is an online wiki-style publication featuring how-to articles on a variety of topics.[84] In October 2018, Gizmodo would include wikiHow in its list of "100 Websites That Shaped the Internet as We Know It", referring to it as "a consistently useful resource."[85] In 2019, Forbes would recognize wikiHow in its list of "The Best Small Companies Of 2019".[86]
2005 January Wiki launch WikiAnswers is launched as a collaborative question-and-answer platform, allowing users to ask questions and receive answers from the community. The platform aims to build a vast, user-generated knowledge base by enabling users to contribute answers and edit existing ones. Later, WikiAnswers would be rebranded as Answers.com, expanding its focus to provide a broader range of information and becoming a more comprehensive resource for users seeking answers across various topics.
2005 February 7 Wiki launch Fallout Wiki is launched as The Vault by Polish translator Paweł Dembowski. It is a wiki about the Fallout fictional universe, providing detailed information about the game's lore, characters, and settings. In 2007, it would move to Wikia.[87]
2005 March 4 Wiki launch Wookieepedia is launched. This wiki is dedicated to the Star Wars universe, providing detailed information on its extensive lore, characters, planets, and storylines. Wookieepedia serves as a comprehensive resource for fans and researchers seeking in-depth knowledge about the Star Wars franchise. It operates under a collaborative model, allowing users to contribute and edit content to continuously update and expand the information available.[88]
2005 March Service Launch Wikispaces, another notable wiki farm, is launched. It quickly becomes popular among educational institutions for collaborative projects and is one of the early contributors to the growth of wikis in academia.[89]
2005 June 19 Wiki launch Baike.com is launched by Pan Haidong as Hudong.[90][55] This Chinese-language wiki is designed to provide a collaborative platform for creating and sharing knowledge across a wide range of topics. Baike.com aims to offer a comprehensive and accessible repository of information, drawing on contributions from its user community to build and maintain its content. The site serves as a valuable resource for users seeking detailed and reliable information in Chinese.
2005 August Conference The first Wikimania, an annual conference organized around Wikimedia Foundation projects, takes place in Frankfurt, Germany. This marks the beginning of large-scale wiki-related meetings and conferences.[91]
2005 September 6 Literature Anja Ebersbach, Markus Glaser and Richard Heigl publish Wiki: Web Collaboration. This work explores the concept of wikis, focusing on their use for collaborative online communication and knowledge management. The book delves into the principles behind wiki technology, its applications, and its impact on web-based collaboration. It provides insights into how wikis facilitate information sharing and teamwork, contributing to the broader understanding of their role in digital collaboration.[92]
2005 October Symposium The first WikiSym, an academic symposium about wikis, is held in San Diego, California. In 2014, it would be renamed OpenSym, continuing as a significant event for wiki research and discussion.[93]
2006 February Conference The first RecentChangesCamp, an unconference dedicated to wikis, is held in Portland, Oregon. It would become known for its informal, participant-driven format, promoting collaboration and innovation within the wiki community.[94]
2006 April 6 Wiki launch LyricWiki is launched. This wiki is dedicated to providing a comprehensive and collaborative database of song lyrics. It allows users to contribute and edit lyrics from various artists and genres, creating a valuable resource for music fans and researchers.[95]
2006 April 7 Wiki launch Wikiloc is launched.[96] It is a track-sharing site designed for users to share and discover routes based on GPS tracking. Primarily used for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and trekking, Wikiloc allows users to upload and access detailed tracks, waypoints, and route descriptions. The platform facilitates the exchange of route information and enhances outdoor adventures by providing a community-driven repository of navigational data.[97]
2006 April Wiki software launch SamePage is launched by eTouch Systems. It is a collaborative software platform designed to facilitate team communication and project management. SamePage combines wiki functionality with features for document sharing, task management, and real-time collaboration. The platform aims to enhance productivity by providing a centralized space where teams can work together, share information, and track project progress.[55]
2006 April Wiki launch Major Chinese wiki encyclopedia Baidu Baike (not to confuse with baike.com) is launched. Operated by the Chinese search engine Baidu, the for-profit wiki quickly becomes more popular than the Chinese version of Wikipedia within China. Baidu Baike would hold millions of articles, and unlike Wikipedia, it would retain copyright over its content, reflecting a different approach to information sharing in China.[55]
2006 May 9 Wiki launch AboutUs.com is launched. This wiki-based platform focuses on creating and maintaining detailed pages about businesses, organizations, and websites. It allows users to contribute and edit content related to various entities, offering a comprehensive directory and profile information. AboutUs.com aims to provide accurate and user-generated insights into a wide range of topics, enhancing online visibility and information accessibility for businesses and organizations.
2006 May 24 Wiki launch Geographic online encyclopedia project Wikimapia is launched.[98][99] It is a geographic online encyclopedia project, which implements an interactive "clickable" web map that utilizes Google Maps with a geographically-referenced wiki system, with the aim to mark and describe all geographical objects in the world.[100]
2006 June Wiki software launch Redmine is launched as an open-source project management and issue tracking application. Similar to Trac, Redmine offers features for managing projects, tracking issues, and facilitating team collaboration. It includes support for multiple projects, project wikis, forums, and customizable issue tracking. Redmine is designed to be flexible and adaptable, catering to a range of project management needs and integrating with various version control systems.[55]
2006 June Literature Jane Klobas and Angela Beesley publish Books on Google Play Wikis: Tools for Information Work and Collaboration. This publication explores the use of wikis as tools for facilitating information work and collaboration in various contexts.[101]
2006 July Wiki software launch MindTouch, Inc. launches DekiWiki, an open-source wiki software initially developed as a fork of MediaWiki. Over time, DekiWiki would undergo significant modifications, evolving beyond its origins. The software would be later renamed first to "Deki" and then to "MindTouch Core." It is designed to provide advanced features for collaboration and information management, catering to both individual and enterprise needs. MindTouch Core would be recognized for integrating wiki functionalities with enterprise collaboration tools, aiming to enhance knowledge sharing and project management.[102]
2006 Wiki launch United States Director of National Intelligence John Negroponte unveils Intellipedia, a secure online wiki platform designed exclusively for use by intelligence analysts and officials across the country's 16 intelligence agencies. Intellipedia is developed to enhance information sharing and collaboration within the U.S. intelligence community, allowing users with appropriate security clearance to contribute, edit, and access a vast array of intelligence data in real-time. This initiative aims to break down traditional silos and improve the efficiency of intelligence operations by leveraging the collaborative nature of wikis in a secure environment.[1]
2006 August 15 Wiki launch Wikiversity is launched[103] as an independent Wikimedia Foundation project.[46] As of September 2022, there are Wikiversity sites active for 17 languages[104][75] comprising a total of 138,570 articles and 810 recently active editors.[75]
2006 October 4 Wiki launch WikiLeaks is founded as an international, non-profit platform designed for whistleblowers to anonymously release classified or sensitive information. The website, spearheaded by Australian activist Julian Assange, aims to promote transparency by publishing documents related to government, corporate, and institutional misconduct. WikiLeaks would gain global attention with its large-scale releases, including diplomatic cables, military logs, and surveillance programs, often exposing controversial practices and sparking public debate. While lauded for its commitment to free speech and transparency, WikiLeaks would also face significant criticism and legal challenges related to the ethical and security implications of its publications.[105]
2006 October 26 Wiki launch Metapedia is launched by Anders Lagerström, a neo-Nazi publisher from Linköping, Sweden.[106] It is an online wiki-based encyclopedia dedicated to fascist, far-right, white nationalist, white supremacist, anti-feminist, homophobic, Islamophobic, antisemitic, Holocaust-denying and neo-Nazi points of view.[107][108][109][110][111][112]
2006 November 21 Wiki launch Conservapedia is launched.[113] Established by American lawyer and Christian conservative activist Andrew Schlafly, it is a wiki encyclopedia project written from an American Conservative viewpoint, to fix what is seen as a liberal bias in Wikipedia.[114]
2006 December Wiki launch Sunshine Press launches the wikiLeaks.org website, as part of an international non-profit organization that obtains and publishes sensitive information.[115][116]
2006 December Wiki software launch Clearspace, a collaborative software platform created by Jive Software, is launched. It provides tools for team collaboration, content management, and community building. The platform would be rebranded as Jive SBS, then Jive Engage, and eventually simply Jive. This evolution reflects the dynamic nature of enterprise collaboration tools during this period.[55][117]
2006 December Wiki launch Wikivoyage is launched as a non-commercial travel wiki, created by former authors and administrators of WikiTravel. Unlike its predecessor, Wikivoyage is designed to provide travel information and guides without commercial interests, relying on a community-driven model to offer comprehensive and up-to-date travel content. The platform allows users to contribute and edit articles on destinations, accommodations, and travel tips, aiming to foster a collaborative and unbiased resource for travelers worldwide. This launch marks a significant shift towards creating an open and freely accessible travel guide online.[55]
2007 January Wiki launch Amazon.com releases Amapedia, a product-review wiki integrated into its website. Amapedia allows users to collaboratively create and edit product information, reflecting the growing influence of wikis in mainstream web services. However, despite its innovative approach, Amapedia would be shut down in June 2010 due to limited user engagement.[55][118][119]
2007 January Project launch DBpedia is launched as a project aimed at extracting structured data from Wikipedia and making it available in a machine-readable format. This initiative enables advanced querying of Wikipedia data, contributing significantly to the Linked Data movement by providing a foundational dataset that could be linked to other web resources. By 2008, it would become a major component of the Linked Data initiative.[120]
2007 February Wiki launch Penguin Books launches a wiki to create the planned novel A Million Penguins, in a well-publicized experiment at creating a crowd-generated novel. The wiki would be shut down a month later, not having created a coherent work.[121]
2007 Wiki launch ShoutWiki, a wiki farm, is founded.[122] An alternative to Wikia, ShoutWiki is launched as a wiki farm offering a free, ad-supported hosting service for wikis. It provides a platform for users to create and manage their own wikis without cost, making it accessible for various projects and communities. Unlike Wikia, which operates on a larger scale and with different monetization strategies, ShoutWiki focuses on providing a straightforward, user-friendly environment with basic support and customization options. Its ad-supported model allows for a no-cost entry point for users interested in establishing collaborative online spaces.[123]
2007 March Concept development The word "wiki" enters the Oxford English Dictionary. This milestone recognizes the widespread adoption and significance of wikis in online collaboration and information sharing.[124]
2007 March Wiki launch Larry Sanger, co-founder of Wikipedia, launches Citizendium as an alternative to traditional wikis. Unlike Wikipedia, Citizendium emphasizes expert oversight and requires contributors to use their real names, aiming to enhance credibility and accountability. The platform seeks to address issues of reliability and anonymity found in Wikipedia by involving subject-matter experts in the review process. Citizendium’s model is designed to combine the collaborative nature of wikis with the authority of expert input, reflecting a shift towards a more structured approach in online encyclopedia creation.[125]
2007 May 22 Wiki launch RationalWiki is launched.[126] It is an online wiki whose stated goals are to "analyze and refute pseudoscience and the anti-science movement, document 'crank' ideas, explore conspiracy theories, authoritarianism, and fundamentalism, and analyze how these subjects are handled in the media."[127]
2007 - Wiki launch Proteopedia is created at the Weizmann Institute of Science.[128] It is a unique wiki-based 3D encyclopedia dedicated to proteins and other molecules. Proteopedia allows users to explore and visualize molecular structures in three dimensions, providing detailed information about protein functions, interactions, and structures. This interactive platform is designed to enhance understanding in molecular biology and biochemistry by offering a collaborative and dynamic resource for researchers and students.[129][130][131][132]
2007 October Wiki launch The OnePile Filing System is introduced. This system aims to simplify document management by using a single, unified repository for all files and information, organized in a wiki format. The goal is to streamline access and collaboration by eliminating the complexity of multiple folders and file structures, instead offering a single, searchable, and editable space where users could organize and share documents more efficiently. The OnePile Filing System leverages wiki technology to provide a more flexible and user-friendly approach to information management.[16]
2007 December 6 Literature Mark S. Choate publishes Professional Wikis, which shows how to install, use, manage, and extend a wiki using MediaWiki. It teaches wiki terminology and how to create user accounts and new pages, among other skills.[133]
2008  ? Wiki launch WikiTree is launched as a collaborative family tree website. It allows users to build and share a single global family tree, enabling collaboration on genealogical research. WikiTree’s approach emphasizes the collective effort of its users to create a comprehensive and accurate family history, integrating features for family collaboration, research, and documentation. The site provides tools for users to connect with others researching similar family lines and encourages the sharing of family information while maintaining a focus on privacy and data accuracy.[134][135]
2008 May Search engine release Powerset, a company established in 2005, releases a search engine that utilizes data from the English Wikipedia to answer natural-language queries. This innovation allows users to obtain more precise answers to complex questions. Microsoft would acquire Powerset in July 2008, integrating its technology to enhance the Bing search engine’s capabilities.[136]
2008 September Wiki launch Catawiki is launched as a wiki-based platform for auctions. Initially focusing on collectibles, rare items, and unique objects, Catawiki allows users to browse, bid, and buy items through an online auction format. Over time, it would evolve to cover a broader range of categories, including art, antiques, and luxury items, becoming a significant player in the online auction market. The platform combines the auction model with a user-friendly interface and expert curation to facilitate transactions and attract buyers and sellers globally.[137]
2008 November Literature Matthew Barton, Robert Cummings and Matt Barton publish Wiki Writing: Collaborative Learning in the College Classroom. This book examines the use of wikis as educational tools in higher education. It focuses on how wikis can facilitate collaborative learning, enhance student engagement, and improve writing skills in the classroom. The authors offer practical advice and strategies for integrating wikis into college curricula, demonstrating their potential to foster collaborative, peer-driven educational environments.[138]
2008 December Literature James A. West and Margaret L. West publish Using Wikis for Online Collaboration: The Power of the Read-Write Web, which explores the capabilities of wikis as tools for online collaboration, emphasizing their role in enhancing teamwork and information sharing. The book provides practical insights into how wikis can be utilized effectively for collaborative projects and highlights the benefits of the "read-write" web, where users not only consume content but also contribute to and modify it.[139]
2009 January Wiki launch The Polymath Project begins.[140] It is a collaboration among mathematicians to solve important and difficult mathematical problems by coordinating many mathematicians to communicate with each other on finding the best route to the solution.[141]
2009 April Wiki launch Tricki is launched as a wiki dedicated to storing and sharing tricks and strategies for proving mathematical results. It serves as a collaborative platform where mathematicians and enthusiasts can contribute and access a collection of problem-solving techniques and insights. The wiki aims to support the mathematical community by providing a repository of valuable strategies that can aid in understanding and solving complex mathematical problems.[142]
2010 May Wiki launch TermWiki is announced by CSOFT International Ltd.," a leading provider of multilingual localization, testing, and outsourced software development for the global market, announced today the upcoming launch of TermWiki, the localization industry’s first multilingual, collaborative and Wiki-based terminology management system."[143]
2010 August Wiki launch Open protein structure annotation network (TOPSAN) is launched as a specialized wiki designed to collect, share, and distribute information about the protein three-dimensional structures of proteins. The platform aims to facilitate collaboration and data sharing among researchers and scientists in the field of protein biology, providing a centralized resource for annotated protein structures and related scientific information.[144]
2010 December Wiki software launch SAP enhances its NetWeaver Portal application by incorporating wiki functionality. This addition allows users to collaboratively create, edit, and organize content directly within the portal, leveraging the collaborative nature of wikis to improve knowledge sharing and project management. By integrating wiki software, SAP enables teams to document processes, share insights, and maintain an evolving repository of information, enhancing the overall utility and user experience of the NetWeaver Portal. This move aligns with the broader trend of integrating social and collaborative tools into enterprise software to boost productivity and innovation.
2011 February Literature Dan Woods and Peter Thoeny publish Wikis For Dummies,[145] which attempts to offer a friendly guide to get the user you up and running in the wiki world in short time, from creating and editing wiki pages and going public to handling maintenance, promotion, and project management.[146]
2012 October 30 Wiki launch The Wikidata project, a collaborative data repository, is officially launched. Wikidata is designed to provide a centralized source of data that could be utilized across all language editions of Wikipedia, streamlining the process of updating and maintaining information on the platform. On January 14, 2013, Wikidata would be used for the first time to automatically display "interlanguage links" within articles on the Hungarian Wikipedia. This marks the beginning of Wikidata's integration into Wikipedia, enhancing the efficiency and consistency of information management across different language editions.
2014 December Wiki launch Everipedia is launched as a blockchain-based online encyclopedia. It aims to create a decentralized and open-source platform for knowledge sharing, utilizing blockchain technology to ensure transparency, security, and immutability of its content. Unlike traditional wikis, Everipedia integrates blockchain to offer a more distributed model of content management and verification. This innovative approach seeks to address issues related to content censorship and reliability, providing a platform where users can freely contribute and access information with greater accountability.[147][148]
2015 April 17 Wiki launch Namuwiki is launched as a South Korean online encyclopedia. It is a wiki-style platform where users can create and edit articles on various topics, similar to other wiki-based sites. Namuwiki is known for its focus on a broad range of subjects, including popular culture, technology, and Korean society, and would gain popularity in South Korea for its detailed and community-driven content.[149]
2017 March 12 Wiki launch Timelines Wiki is launched by Issa Rice.[150] It is a wiki storing timelines on various topics. The platform is designed to organize and present chronological information systematically, making it a valuable resource for understanding historical and contemporary events, projects, and developments across various fields.[151]
2017 October 30 Wiki launch WikiTribune is launched. Founded by Jimmy Wales, co-founder of Wikipedia, WikiTribune is a news website that combines traditional journalism with wiki-style editing. It aims to produce high-quality, fact-checked news articles by engaging journalists and a community of volunteer contributors who can collaborate on articles and ensure accuracy. The platform seeks to address issues of misinformation and bias in news reporting by leveraging collaborative editing and transparency.[152] In November 2019, the original WikiTribune website would be redirected to WT.Social.

Visual data

Google trends

The image below shows Google Trends data for Wiki (topic), from January 2004 to September 2024, when the screenshot as taken. Interest is also ranked by country and displayed on world map.[153]

Wiki-google-trends.png


Google Ngram Viewer

The chart below shows Google Ngram Viewer data for wiki, from 1995 to 2022.[154]

Wiki-google-ngramviewer.jpg

Wikipedia views

The chart below shows Wikipedia Views data for English article Wiki, from July 2015 to August 2024.[155]

Wiki-wikipedia-views.png

Meta information on the timeline

How the timeline was built

The initial version of the timeline was written by Sebastian.

Funding information for this timeline is available.

Feedback and comments

Feedback for the timeline can be provided at the following places:

  • FIXME

What the timeline is still missing

Timeline update strategy

See also

External links

References

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