Blogs vs. Wikis

Similarities and Differences

In ways that they are both the same is how they are meant to provide information on a specific topic. Usually blogs and wikis hone down on one main focus. Both blogs and wikis give the user(s) the freedom to have any topic, theme, etc. Another similarity is that both blogs and wikis allow the user to edit their texts after posting or publishing. Finally, blogs and wikis are a good way to network and interact with your community.

The way the blog and wiki is used is different. Blogs are used by one person. Wikis are sometimes used by a group of people who edit each others texts and add their own input. Format of the two are different as well. Blogs are read in postings and wikis are read in documents. Blogs network by reading, commenting, and linking with other blogs. Wikis network by having others read, edit, and update the document.

Convergence in today's networked world

This transformation of old to new media is essential in many aspects. For one, it helps business to connect with those most important to them; employees and customers. In a NY times article called "Wal-Mart Tastemakers Write Unfiltered Blog", Michael Barbaro discuss how Wal-Mart created a blog where employees and customers were able to comment on their opinion of items Wal-Mart shelved. By doing this, Wal-Mart is able to receive feedback on their merchandise from the people most important to them. Through this blog, employees, customers, and management are able collaborate their ideas on improving Wal-Mart.

A New Use for Wikis

In today's day, wikis are already being used in so many fields. A new way wikis may be used is through apps on mobile devices such as cellphones and iPod devices.

Cite

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/03/business/03walmart.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1&adxnnlx=1267215043-37EaAxDhfJALJVD5OdXouw