Analyzing Wiki-based Networks to Improve Knowledge Processes in Organizations

Claudia Müller (University of Potsdam, Germany)

Benedikt Meuthrath (University of Potsdam, Germany)

Anne Baumgraß (University of Potsdam, Germany)

Abstract: Increasingly wikis are used to support existing corporate knowledge exchange processes. They are an appropriate software solution to support knowledge processes. However, it is not yet proven whether wikis are an adequate knowledge management tool or not. This paper presents a new approach to analyze existing knowledge exchange processes in wikis based on network analysis. Because of their dynamic characteristics four perspectives on wiki networks are introduced to investigate the interrelationships between people, information, and events in a wiki information space. As an analysis method the Social Network Analysis (SNA) is applied to uncover existing structures and temporal changes. A scenario data set of an analysis conducted with a corporate wiki is presented. The outcomes of this analysis were utilized to improve the existing corporate knowledge processes.

Keywords: collaboration network, knowledge work, network analysis, social software, wiki

Categories: A.1, H.0, H.4.3, H.4.m, J.3, K.4.2, K.4.3, M.4