Wikis+for+Internal+Documentation

After browsing the Internet for some information on using wikis for documentation, I came across an informative post regarding the use of wikis for internal documentation. This was specific to non-profit organizations, but it doesn't have to be.

Jeremy Wallace, the author or [|//Using Wikis for Internal Documentation//], mentions that while internal documentation for new hires, standard procedures, email signatures, etc., should be something every non-profit should have handy, oftentimes they don't exist, or when they do they are often out of date or rarely updated. He urges non-profits to employ the use of wikis for said documentation. I think this is a great idea because as mentioned earlier, it doesn't necessarily need to be just for non-profits.

At my previous place of employment in New York, we had a number of computer programs we used in order to complete various tasks. One person was responsible for creating step-by-step documentation for a number of activities and these were saved on that person's computer. They were rarely updated, hardly passed around, and whenever said person would leave the company, the documents would usually disappear. As Jake Wallace mentions, "Because wikis are online, distribution is a snap." What a novel concept!

Wallace also provides beginner information for what type of wiki the company should choose and how to get started.

"Done right, an organizational wiki will become the first place your employees turn when they have a question about how to perform a task, or when they have information – whether an update, a quick tip, or a how-to guide – they want to share." - Jeremy Wallace

So, what are you waiting for? Have discussions with your team internally and begin to document these processes, and use the link for more information if needed.

For more information on how Wikis are being used within a company go to Reasons for integrating a wiki into your company's intranet. For more on how Wikis can benefit a business, go to Would Your Business Benefit from a Wiki?

Wallace, Jeremy. //Using Wikis for Internal Documentation//. IdealWare.org, March 2008. Web. 4 Nov. 2011.
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