I thought the subject heading wiki was great. We should do something like this. It might make searching for stuff a whole lot easier for people who don’t want to sift through all of our catalog entries. I also liked the Book Lovers wiki. I could think of many ways to use wikis, like planning a family reunion or any kind of party for that matter. The main barrier for me right now would be simply remembering to use a wiki and getting other people to use it since we are still so email oriented. It takes a long time to put something new into practice and to get people away from what they perceive as the tried and true. But learning about it is the first step and then trying it out and convincing others to give it a try. Just like everything, if it’s easy enough and the need is there, it will catch on. I am definitely going to try this when it’s my turn to plan the next big family event.
As for the library, I’ve always wanted a library “intranet” where we could put all of our policies and procedures online. This would be a perfect way to set up an intranet. Who wants to take this on? Or, should I say, who wants to help me?
Exactly right, getting people to give up e-mail is a challenge. But as you suggest, telling people and then getting them to try it is the right first step. Another help is that e-mail programs are developing more sophisticated tools that help them integrate better with Web 2.0-type sites. Like gmail, where you can start IM conversations directly with the person who sent you an e-mail. They’ll help us bridge the gap.
-Garrett
Comment by svl2 — October 31, 2007 @ 11:21 pm