Posted by Ashley White on Jul 3, 2014 4:54:00 PM

WikiTraining Companies : Are you wise to the Wiki?

Are you looking for the latest and greatest tool from training companies to increase learner engagement in your next learning initiative? Chances are your Google search results came back with a long list of tools, my search came back with roughly 17,000,000 results.  You may not have to look as far as you think, now might be the time to consider a wiki to cultivate learner engagement.  Get wise to the Wiki.

Wiki Defined:

A wiki is a collaborative website that collects and organizes content, created and revised by its users.  The most recognized example is Wikipedia. Wikis are a way to grow a knowledge base around a particular content area, be it best practices in a particular field or how to use a specific piece of software. Some organizations allow any registered user to contribute; others limit contributors to a particular department or group.

Benefits of a Wiki:

  • Wikis can interchangeably be applied to just about any content area:

    Why is that good?

    Use a similar format/template for different training topics in different departments. This creates a consistent feel that is easily replicated and easy to maintain.

  • The information is easily accessible:

    Why is that good?

    Your organization is rolling out new software that may be difficult for the novice user.  Subject matter experts can contribute tips and guidance on various software procedures through the wiki.  The novice user can quickly navigate to the right answer for their procedural question.

  • Wikis only require basic programming skills for installation, setup and maintenance:

    Why is that good?

    This helps to keep your organization on budget, the quick setup allows for you to stay within your time timeline, and the maintenance of your wiki can easily be maintained without help from a third party organization.

  • Effortlessly update and edit your files:

    Why is that good?

    Contributors can easily participate in the development of the wiki by uploading files for other participants to add to or revise. Content is created independently, so that multiple people can be working on the site at the same time. Wiki also tracks progress to allow them to contribute when time permits and quickly view the most recent updates.

  • Wiki develops a sense of community

    Why is that good?

    Wikis have a history page that lists the original contributor of an article and those who make edits and revisions.  This open collaboration provides contributors with a sense of ownership.  Also, the users within your organization can add that touch of real-world knowledge that other employees can relate to and find appealing.  This helps them buy-in to the idea of a wiki community and increases user engagement.

Wikis could be the answer to increase learner engagement and collaboration in your current learning initiative.  They may not be for every organization.  You may need to enlist the help of a team of instructional designers to implement a successful learning strategy to get your organization off on the right foot.      

Implementing training to support new technology across your enterprise? In today’s world, technology is critical to an organization. Are you implementing new technology across your enterprise?  Upskilling your people in new areas?  We know how stressful this can be.

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Topics: corporate training, TrainingFolks, training company, training companies, best training companies, best training company, Wiki

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