Wikis are being used more and more as a means of applying the wisdom of the crowds to new domains. Here are a few that popped up in the information stream recently:
Keiki
This project uses a wiki to create a “free, complete and reliable parenting guide” authored by caretakers and those with interest in child development (like educators). It covers all stages of development, from conception to college.
WikiCity
Imagine a city as a real time control system, in which data is accrued and immediately affects the system. That is the idea behind placing sensors in Rome to track human activity with known events. A display provides the information to people who in turn change the display through their actions.
WikiInvest
This investment information wiki recently netted $25 million to help take it to the next level. As as competitor to the expert-driven investment advice resources, WikiInvest is a research portal where anyone can contribute information on companies, including expanding profiles or chart analysis.
WikiLeaks
This is a political project to provide an outlet for the safe release of mass document leaking and public analysis. Although potentially helpful everywhere information is controlled, WikiLeaks is targeting traditionally restrictive information cultures in Asia, the former Soviet bloc, Latin America, Sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East. Members can reveal unethical behavior in government and corporations. One of the best things the site is doing is keeping tabs on its own press. The site uses a combination of open source and custom coding to protect document donors and the site content.
