Wikimedia Product/Perspectives/Experience

Overview
Abstract

Wikimedia projects have become important fixtures in the infrastructure of knowledge sharing on the Internet. However, social media/messaging and multimedia now drive information consumption 1,4,5, 20. Our platform is largely absent in these sectors. Much of this is due to a systemic focus on strictly utilitarian user experiences, outdated content models, and a lack of information in formats that modern audiences desire.

Additionally, user expectations are rapidly growing in regards to tailored experiences. Software is becoming more aware of individual user needs. The likes, dislikes, and personal preferences of users are vital considerations for modern software design. Our products severely lack user awareness and interface customization.

We can remedy these issues by following six experience principles:


 * Go where the people already are and utilize platforms they already like.
 * Provide suitable content format alternatives for subjects that are not well-served by long text or require advanced levels of prior knowledge 23
 * Purposely become a tool that empowers others to create, promote, and remix knowledge-based content in many formats
 * Provide greater control over information and interface to match individual needs.
 * User-centered design helps meet consumer expectation 21, 22
 * Usability is of utmost importance, but remember to design experiences that are not only usable but also truly useful

A user’s expectations of quality are shaped by the totality of their digital experiences. To match these expectations, we have to match the quality of other experiences that users are exposed to. The simplest way to do that is to re-use and refine patterns, methods, and mental models of popular platforms.

Discovery models will be key, as well as having captivating content people want to discover. But that discovery process must be proactive on our part. A large and growing body of research supports a key folk theory - content finds the consumer 1,4,5.

Aspects

 * Form Factor
 * Rich Media
 * Contributor Experience
 * Customization
 * Discovery

Areas of Impact

 * Wikidata 11
 * Commons 12
 * iOS and Android apps 13


 * Wikipedia 14

Key External Factors

 * Social Platform dynamics 15
 * Demographics 16
 * Generational shifts 17
 * Technological waves 18


 * Google 19